
Rnnk ^ ' TA; 



References. 

A Til^rim tlali 
JB. Court Souse 
C. Jail 
I* Bank, 
E. Church 
F r^fTi 7%<», ^Market 
(i. Church 
H. Forefathers Roch 
I J . Church 
31. Church 
X. Toor Mouse 
0. (^;?,rtrt'/r 
Vr- Church. 




'JiYMOlTTH_ 




f-^^^&l^ 



References. 

A Tilgrim Hall 
Y) Court Bouse 

C. Jail 

D Banh 

E, Church 

Y. Tmji/fo:^ Market 

G. Church 

H. Forefathers HocU 

Tj . Church 

M. Church 

1(. Toor House 
.J). Church 

^Cfmrch. 



."^ ' '^'^^ Scale,- ,W Rods' to an Inch 



FliYMOlTTHTftliAltlE , 



Tt'nitlctoii\i- Liifco^' Bcpiori 



Hefereiices. 



A Til^jim Hall 
¥). Court Rouse 
C. Jail 
I) Bank 
E Church 

F. Towm Ho: ,^ Miirket 

G. Church 
H. Forefathers Twch 
L . Church 
M. Church 
X. ToorKoiis-e 
0. Church 







HISTORY 



OP 

THE TOWN OF PLYMOUTH, 

FROM ITS FIRST SETTLEMENT IN 1620, 
TO THE PRESENT TIME: 

WITH A CONCISE 

HISTORY OF THE ABORIGINES 

« 

OF NEW ENGLAND, 
AND THEIR WARS WITH THE ENGLISH, &c. 

BY JAMES TIOlCHER, M^ D. A. A. S. 



Ask thy fathers and they will show thee j thy elders and they will tell 

thee." 



SECOND EDITION, ENLARGED AND CORRECTED*,. 



BOSTON: 
MARSH, CAPEN & LYO^N 

1835. 






^%\\ 



Entered according to the act of Congress, in the year 1835, by Marsh, 
Capen & Lyon, in the Clerk's office of the District Court of 
Massachusetts. 



PREFACE.. 



The author of these pages feels great pleasure in acknowl- 
edging his obligations to the public that the whole of the first 
edition, consisting of 1250 copies, was disposed of within a few 
months after publication. The present impression is consider- 
ably enlarged and improved, and will present a full, and he 
trusts, a correct narrative of the pilgrimage of our puritan fath- 
ers, and a just delineation of their characters. From them we 
inherit civil and religious foundations, incomparably the wisest 
and best that ancestors ever bequeathed to their posterity. It 
is from their wisdom and virtue that we derive instruction per- 
taining to the radical principles which are recognized at the 
present day as the immutable laws of the rights of man, and 
their glorious achievements were highly prized and firmly sus- 
tained by the sages of our revolution, in 1776. Their ardent 
zeal and heavenly temper prompted them to labor in the peril- 
ous field of liberty, and their spirits, sustained by a holy trust, 
must have traced through the eye of faith the glorious destiny 
of future generations. While we trace, in their struggle for 
religious and political freedom, our inestimable institutions, and 
witness that their efforts in the noble cause are triumphant, we 
almost wish that they might awake to a second existence. But 
who can know the felicity the good spirits may now enjoy, as 
from their heavenly seat, they look down upon the scene of 
their trials, their sufferings, and their death, and see that the 
land they loved is free and happy ? 

" Go call thy sons ; instruct them what a debt 
They owe their ancestors; and make them swear 
To pay it, by transmitting down entire 
Those sacred rights to which themselves were born." 

Jlkenside. 



IV. PREFACE. 

To this edition of the work is added a concise history of the 
aborigines of New England and of their wars with the English, 
together with anecdotes and biographical sketches of their 
chiefs. This part of the work comes from original authority, 
and is closely connected with the history of our fathers while 
in their forlorn condition. It forms a distinct treatise at the end 
of the volume. This production is now submitted to the candid 
judgment of the public ; the materials are derived from the most 
authentic sources, and are condensed in as limited a space as 
would consist with propriety and convenience. It is hoped that 
the reader will not complain of redundancy. Minuteness of 
detail is indispensable in the delineation of individual character, 
or in a faithful relation of transactions under the most trying 
circumstances. Should errors be detected in this compilation, 
the author would only observe, that perfect works come only 
from perfect wisdom, but if assiduity and care can bring any 
work to a respectable standard of correctness, he may, in this 
instance, have some grounds to hope for public approbation. 

JAMES THACHER. 

Plymouth, Sept. 1st, 1835. 



CONTENTS. 



A. 

Adams, John 158 

Adams, John Quincy 158, 219 
Agawam, (Ipswich) 21 

Agawam, (Wareham) 174 

Agents for obtaining char- 
ter 14, 158 
Agriculture 312 
Alden, John and descend- 
ants 30, 156 to 158 
Alarm in town 45, 174, 208 
Alewive Fishery 173 
Allerton, Isaac 36, 38, 68, 71, 115 



Appendix 



299 



B. 



Alms House 



172, 337 



Anecdote from Hubbard 49 

of Massasoit 75 

of Indian Magistrate 146 

of John Alden and Capt. 

Standish 156 

of Tories 204 

Andros, Sir Admund arrives, 
and his base conduct; he 
is deposed and imprison- 
ed 149 to 155 
Anniversary of the Forefath- 
ers' celebration 181, 183, 219 
222, 229, 233,248, 254, 255, 256 
Anniversary of Independ- 
ence 249, 251 
of Washington's birth day 255 
Aqueduct 319 
Answer of Boston to Plyra. 

address 179 

Arch Bishop Laud 271, 272 

Aspinet, friendly Sachem 41, 57 
Assistants 61, 81, 122 

Antiquities in the cabinet of 

Pilgrim Society 258 

Atwood, John 85, 86 

Ashurst, Sir H. 159 

1 



Bacon, Rev. Jacob 285 

Balfour, Capt. and his officers 205 
Bank of Plymouth 239 

Old Colony 239 

Savings 239 

Baptist Society 291 

Barque built at Plymouth 84 

Barnes, John 128 — 

Barrett, Rev. Joshua 281 

Barrett, Rev. Mr. of Boston 256 
Bass abundant in the creeks 58 
Battery on Cole's Hill 327 

Battle with the Indians, (see 

Indian history) 
Bay of Plymouth and of Mas- 
sachusetts 324 / 
Beach of Plymouth 328 
Beecher, Rev. Dr. Lyman 252 
Bell purchased 173 
Bell presented to the town 217 
Belknap, Rev. Dr. 105, 270 
Bigelow, Rev. Jonathan 256 
Billington Sea discovered 31 
described 320 
Billington, John, first offender 37 
executed for murder 72 
Billington, a boy lost in the 

woods 40 

Birth day of our nation 24 

Blagden, Rev. Mr. 256 

Bookstore 335 

Bounds of Plymouth town- 
ship 163 , 
; Bradford,William,Governor, V 
his death and character 14, 38 
50,61,72,80,100 
his monument ^7 
his wife drowned 23 



IV. PREFACE. 

To this edition of the work is added a concise history of the 
aborigines of New England and of their wars with the English, 
together with anecdotes and biographical sketches of their 
chiefs. This part of the work comes from original authority, 
and is closely connected with the history of our fathers while 
in their forlorn condition. It forms a distinct treatise at the end 
of the volume. This production is now submitted to the candid 
judgment of the public; the materials are derived from the most 
authentic sources, and are condensed in as limited a space as 
would consist with propriety and convenience. It is hoped that 
the reader will not complain of redundancy. Minuteness of 
detail is indispensable in the delineation of individual character, 
or in a faithful relation of transactions under the most trying 
circumstances. Should errors be detected in this compilation, 
the author would only observe, that 'perfect ivorks come only 
from 'perfect ivisdotn, but if assiduity and care can bring any 
work to a respectable standard of correctness, he may, in this 
instance, have some grounds to hope for public approbation. 

JAMES THACHER. 

Plymouth, Sept. 1st, 1835. 



CONTENTS. 



Adams, John 158 

Adams, John Quincy 158, 219 
Agawam, (Ipswich) 21 

Agawam, (Wareham) 174 

Agents for obtaining char- 
ter 14, 158 
Agriculture 312 
Alden, John and descend- 
ants 30, 156 to 158 
Alarm in town 45, 174, 208 
Alewive Fishery 173 
Allerton, Isaac 36, 38, 68, 71, 115 
Alms House 172, 337 
Anecdote from Hubbard 49 
of Massasoit 75 
of Indian Magistrate 146 
of John Alden and Capt. 

Standish 156 

of Tories 204 

Andros, Sir Admund arrives, 
and his base conduct; he 
is deposed and imprison- 
ed 149 to 155 
Anniversary of the Forefath- 
ers' celebration 181, 183, 219 
222, 229, 233,248, 254, 255, 256 
Anniversary of Independ- 
ence 249, 251 
of Washington's birth day 255 
Aqueduct 319 
Answer of Boston to Plym. 

address 179 

Arch Bishop Laud 271, 272 

Aspinet, friendly Sachem 41, 57 
Assistants 61, 81, 122 

Antiquities in the cabinet of 

Pilgrim Society 258 

Atwood, John 85, 86 

Ashurst, Sir H. 159 

1 



Appendix 



299 



B. 



Bacon, Rev. Jacob 285 

Balfour, Capt. and his officers 205 
Bank of Plymouth 239 

Old Colony 239 

Savings 239 

Baptist Society 291 

Barque built at Plymouth 84 

Barnes, John 128 - 

Barrett, Rev. Joshua 281 

Barrett, Rev. Mr. of Boston 256 
Bass abundant in the creeks 58 
Battery on Cole's Hill 327 

Battle with the Indians, (see 

Indian history) 
Bay of Plymouth and of Mas- 
sachusetts 324/ 
Beach of Plymouth 328 
Beecher, Rev. Dr. Lyman 252 
Bell purchased 173 
Bell presented to the town 217 
Belknap, Rev. Dr. 105, 270 
Bigelow, Rev. Jonathan 256 
Billington Sea discovered 31 
described 320 
Billington, John, first offender 37 
executed for murder 72 
Billington, a boy lost in the 

woods 40 

Birth day of our nation 24 

Blagden, Rev. Mr. 256 

Bookstore 335 

Bounds of Plymouth town- 
ship 163 „ 
, Bradford,WilIiam,Governor, V 
his death and character 14, 38 
50,61,72,80,106 
his monument 327 
his wife drowned 23 



CONTENTS. 



, Bradford, William, Deputy 

Gov. and his descendants 109 

135, 159, 161, 169 

V Bradford, Major John 169, 170 

Bradford, Alden 110, 234, 237 

Bradford, William, Hon. 110 

I Bradford, Col. Gamaliel 1 10 

Bouleil, Rev. Mr. 293 

Brazer, Rev. Mr. 254 

\ Brewster, William, Elder, 

his death and character, 

and descendants 59,88,268, 270 

Brimsmead, Rev. William 273 

Bridge over Jones's River 169 

Bridge over town brook 177 

Bridges 323 

Brooks and ponds 320 

Brown's Island 331 

Brownist 262 

Brown, John 119 

Bugbee, Rev. James H. 292 

Burial Hill 323 

Bushnell, Rev. Harvey 281 

By-law of the town 223 

C. 
Calumnies against the colo- 
nists 61 
Cape Cod first discovered 16 
Canonicus, a Sachem, sends 
a war challenge to Gov. 
Bradford 45 
Card-playing prohibited 104 
Carpenter, Alice 109 
Carpenter, Mary 278 
Careswell, resideHce of the 
Winslow family 94 
V Carver, John, first Governor, 
death and character, 14, 19, 
37,38 
Cattle first brought over and 

distribution of 61, 69 

Cedar swamps divided 384 

Census at early periods 165 

Census of United States 308 
Centennial celebration 233 

Charter given to Wincob 14 

Charter with great seal 79 

Charter uniting the two col- 
onies 159 
Chauncy, Rev. Dr. Charles 266 



Chilton, James and Mary 30, 95 
Christian Society 292 

Church, Leyden, embark 
first in New England 259 

their Ecclesiastical Gov- 
ernment and history 260 
send delegates to Salem 
ordination 71 
Churches set off to Duxbury 

and Green's harbor 267 

Church and parish distinct 

bodies 297 

Church membership a quali- 
fication for freemen 81, 273 
Civic Festival 216 

Clark, Thomas, mate of the 

Mayflower 24, 168 

Clark,Silver-Head Tom, (see 

Indian history) 
Clark, Nathaniel, his history 

and character 150 

Clark's house assaulted, (see 

Indian history) 
Clark's lsland,first landing on 24 
granted to the town 82 

conveyed to N. Clark 151 

sold by the town 158 

description of 330 

Clerks of the town 163 

Clifton, Rev. Mr. 259 

Close of Colonial Govern- 
ment 165 
Club, Old Colony 180 to 198 
Coasting vessels 318 
Cobb, Ebenezer 109 
Cobb, Capt. Sylvanus 175 
Cobb, Rev. Mr. 255 
Codman, Rev. John, D. D. 255 
Cod Fishery 316 
Code of Laws 128 
Cold Harbor 20 
Cole, Rev. Mr. 2,54 
Cole's Hill 28, 174, 199,203, 327 
College graduates 306 
Colonial confederacy 85 
Colony divided into three 

counties 146 

Colony Courts regulated 123 

Combination against English 
settlers 55 



CONTENTS. 



\ 



Commerce and navigation 315 
Commission from King Chas. 
1st, instigated by Arch- 
Bishop Laud 271 
Committee of Correspond- 
ence 196 
of Vigilance 203 
to regulate sale of spirits 228 
Common land reserved to the 

town 164 

Compact of the Pilgrims and 

names of the signers 18 

Congregational Church 260 

Constables chosen, and re- 
fuse to serve 171 
Coppin, Pilot of Mayflower 22 
Corbitant, Indian Sachem 41, 42 
Cordage Company 334 
Corn hill 20 
Cotton, Rev. Mr. John 123, 136, 
168, 273 

his letter relative to C. isl- 
and 154 
his death and character 275 
276 
Cotton, Josiah, Esq. 177, 282 
Cotton, Rev. John 178 
Cotton, Theophihis 206, 207 
Cotton, Josiah, Esq. 178 
Cotton, Rossetter, Esq. 178 
Col ton, Ward, Rev. 178 
Cotton Factories 333 
Court-House erected 175, 309 
Council of War 87 
Cows lost on the passage 72 
Cow-keeper paid in corn 86 
Cow-yard 331 
. Crimble punished for forgery 174 
V Cromwell, Oliver, his com- 
mission to Gov. Winslow 99 
\i Cromwell, Thomas, arrives 88 
Croswell, Andrew 282 
Crombie, William 291 
Cudworth, James 115, 136, 139 

140 
Cushman, Robert 14, 44, 60, 67 
Cushman, Thomas, Elder 67, 68 

270, 273, 278 
Cushman, Isaac 67, 274, 279 
Conant, Gaius 281 



Davis, Capt. Thomas 214 

John, Hon. 214, 234, 254 

Isaac P., Esq. 214 

Thomas, Hon. 214, 219 

Samuel 214, 252 

William, Hon. 214,250 

Wendall, Esq. 214 

Dawson, Capt. skirmish with 208 
Days and months numbered 16 
Deacons in the first church 298 
Deaths among the first set- 
tlers 38 
Declaration of rights 78 
Deer in the forest 313 
Deer trap set by the natives 20 
Deputies first chosen for le- 
gislation 83 
De Razier visits Plymouth 69 
Dissentions among the mer- 
chant adventurers 66 
Division of land to freehold- 
ers 163 
Donation to the Pilgrim So- 
ciety by Judge Davis 254 
Donation to the first church 

by Judge Davis 254, 296 

Donation to the first church 

of a Bible, by Dr. LeBaron 295 
Drought, alarming one 59 

Duel, first in New England 38 
Dwelling houses, number of 309 
Dwight, Rev. Dr., his obser- 
vations 165, 290 
Dyer, John 163, 172 
Dyer, Mary, executed for 
Quaker principles 116 
E. 
Earthquakes 82, 176, 178 
Ecclesiastical history 259 
Eel River 322 
Eeles, Rev. Nathaniel 283 
EelRiver church and society 291 
Electors, qualifications of 81, 159 
Ellis, Rev. Mr. Jonathan 281 
Embargo 223 
Engines in town 320 
Everett, Professor 248 
Execution of one of Wes- 
ton's settlers 49 



8 



CONTENTS. 



Execution of John Billington 72 
of three young men 82 

of three Indians 135 

of Elizabeth Colson 172 

of Mary Dyer 116 

of Joshua Tift, (see Indian 
history) 
Exploring parties 19, 22 

F. 
Faunce, Thomas, Elder 29, 145 
147 

his ordination and charge 277 

his death and character 284 

Ferdinand© Gorges 272 

First embarkation of Pilgrims 15 

^^First landing of Forefathers 24 

vFirst who landed on the rock 30 

First encounter 22 

First burial-place 28 

First interview and treaty with 

natives 35 

First white child born 23 

\ First marriage in N. England 23 
First Jury 60 

First General Assembly 83 

First Meeiing-House erect- 
ed 271, 295 
First patent 58 
First prison 83 
First water-mill 74 
, First selectmen 89 
N< First union of colonies 85 
First vessel built 84 
First post-office 335 
First celebration of forefath- 
ers' landing J81 
First General Court under 

new charter 160 

First parish build new Meet- 
ing-House 

description and dedication 
of 293, 294 

Forefathers' day, (see anni- 
versary) 
V Forefathers' rock 29 

enclosure of described 119 
Fort erected 48, 72, 77, 85, 137 
Fortune arrives with passen- 
gers 44 
Francis, Rev. Mr. Convers 255 



Freeman, Rev. Mr. Frederick 292 

293 
Freeholders granted house 

lots 28, 61, 163 

Free schools 302 

French ships wrecked on 

Cape Cod 20,43 



Frink, Rev. Thomas 

Fuller, Dr. Samuel 
died 

Fuller, Samuel and Bridget 

Fragment Society 
G. 

Goodwin and Brown, lost in 
the woods 

Goodwin, Nathaniel 

Goodwin, Rev. E. Shaw 

Goodwin, Rev. Hersey B. 

Goodwin, William, and fam- 
ily 249 

Gorham, Capt. John 136 

Gorton, Samuel, troubles with 81 

Governor and 7 assistants to 
be chosen in June 

Governors of Plym. colony 

Governor Winthrop and com- 
pany visit Plymouth 
his death 

Governor required to live in 
Plymouth 

Gray, Edward, and descend- 
ants 

Gray, John 

Great Herring Pond 

Great storm 

Gurnet and light-house 
H. 

Hampden, John 

Handmaid, ship, arrives with 
passengers 

Harbor of Plymouth 

Hatherly, Timothy 

Hayward, Beza 

Hicks, Dr. 

Hills 

High pines 

Hinckley, Thomas, Governor 145 
153. 160 

41, 42, 45, 46 



284 

71 

75 

120 

339 



31 
231 
231 
250 



81 
160 

73 



74 

325 
325 
321 

76 
330 



52,53 



72 

324 
60, 125 
253 
206 
323 
331 



CONTENTS. 



Holly, Rev. Mr. Horace 229 

Holmes, Rev. Abiel, D. D. 29 

222 
Hopkins, Stephen 20, 38, 91 

Horses first noticed 110 

Horse given to King Philip 111 
Hostilities with Great Bri- 
tain commenced 207 
Houses of public worship or- 
dered 138 
House in which the colony 

court held their sessions 75 
Howland, John 128, 273 

Howland family, genealogy 

of ' 129 

Hovey, Ivory Rev. 281 

Hunt kidnapped and sold na- 
tives 33, 41 
Hymns and Odes 341 

Imprisonment for debt au- 
thorized 125 
Indians destroyed by plague 33 
Independence celebrated 207 

249, 251 
Indian Powows curse the 

English 31 

Indian anecdote 75, 146 

Indian burial-place 20,22 

Indian chiefs acknowledge 
themselves loyal subjects 
of King James 42 

Indian overseers and consta- 
bles to be chosen 145 
Indian lands purchased 138 
Indian massacre in Virginia 48 
Indians sold for slaves for 

theft 139 

Inhabitants disaffected to the 

common cause 204, 209 

Inhabitants divided into clans 

to raise soldiers 212 

Inquest on dead bodies or- 
dered 125 
Inhabitants required to bring 

bills of estates to the raters 124 
Insurrection by Shays 214 

Iron manufactory 332 

lyanough, Indian Sachem 41, 57 



Jackson, Abraham 163 

Jail of the County 309 

Jenney, John 84 

Jones, master of the May- 
flower 15, 19, 49 
Jones's River 170 
Jones's River Parish set off 172 
Jones's River Meadow 164 
Judson, Rev. Adoniram 291 

K. 
King James refuses a char- 
ter to the puritans 14 
King Charles II. issues a 
commission to hear and 
determine complaints and 
appeals, &c. His Majes- 
ty causes letters to be ad- 
dressed to the government 
of New Plymouth, &c. 
Propositions made to the 
General Court. Thomas 
Willet chosen to confer 
with the commissioners 120 
Court's answer 120 
His Majesty addresses a 
second letter to the gov- 
ernment, approbatory of 
their conduct, and censur- 
incf the Mass. colony 122 
Kendall, Rev. James, D. D. 236 

289 
Kingston set off from Plym. 172 
Kirkland,Rev. John T., D. D. 283 

L. 
Labor and recreation forbid- 
den on Fast and Thanks- 
giving days 145 
Lafayette, correspondence 

with 246 

Land allotted to settlers 163 

Laws and penalties 78, 80 

Laws of the colony revised 116 

128 

against the Quakers 111 to 116 
against strong drink 138 

against sale of tea 197, 200 
against smoking in the 
street 223 



10 



CONTENTS. 



Laws regulating ihe Indians 145 
Lawyers who have resided 

in town 308 

Le Baron, Dr. Francis and 

descendants 167 

Leonard, Rev. Nathaniel 280 

285 
Lincoln, Hon. Levi 237 

Lincoln, Hon. Solomon 255 

Little, Rev. Ephraira 279 

Lothrop, Isaac, Esq. and de- 
scendants 175 
Lothrop, Isaac, Esq. 224 
Lothrop, Nathaniel, M. D. 251 
Lyford, John 62 to 65 
Leyden church 68 
thirty-three families arrive 71 
another portion arrive 72 
M. 
Magee, Captain, awful ship- 
wreck of 210 
Manly, Captain 208 
Manomet 51, 68 
Manufactures 332 
Market 337 
Massachusetts tribe of In- 
dians 43, 45 
Mary Fisher and Ann Aus- 
tin 116 
Mather, Rev. Dr. Increase 159 

396 
Massasoit, Indian King 34, 35 

38, 39, 46, 47, 52, 83 
Mayflower,her voyage across 
the Atlantic,arrives atCape 
Cod, and names of her pas- 
sengers 15, 16, 18 
enters Plymouth harbor 26 
returns to England 37 
Merchant adventurers 66 
Memorial, New England's 126 

148 
Meeting-House erected 271, 277 
Meeting-House struck by 

lightning 296 

Militia of Plymouth 332 

Ministerial house built 120 

Minute companies organized 201 

206 
Monk's hill 208 



Monumental edifice erected 244 
310 

articles deposited under the 
corner-stone 245 

Manomet Ponds parish set off 173 

Morton, Capt. Nathaniel 207 

Morton, Nathaniel, secreta- 
ry and town clerk 139, 147 

Morton, George, and de- 
scendants 147 

Morton, Thomas 71 

Murdock, John, his donation 
to the town 176 

N. 

Names of the passengers in 
the Fortune 44 

Names of those who landed 
on Clark's island 23 

'^ames of early settlers 300 
of those who have deliv- 
ered addresses 339 

Nauset tribe of Indians 33, 41 

Jelson, Capt. Horatio 213 

evv Plymouth, first named 28 
New England Society in N. 

York 221 

Newspapers 334 

Non-intercourse with Eng- 
land 196 
Norton, Rev. John 266 
Nicholson's boarding house 335 
Number of rateable polls 390 
Norton, Humphrey, audaci- 
ousness of 112 
O. 
Observations relative to first 

settlers 299 

Old Colony Club 180 

Old Colony Peace Society 338 
Oldham, John 62 to 65 

Oldest grave stones 325 

Orders by council of war 87 
Oyster bed 170 

P. 
Packard, Rev. Mr. 281 

Paddy, William 84 

Pamit River 20 

Paragon, ship, arrives 58 

Parsonage house given toMr. 
Cotton 136 



CONTENTS. 



11 



Partridge, Rev. Moses 281 

Patent obtained by Wincob 14 
Patent fraudulently obtained 

by Pierce 58 

Patuxet 33 

Pecksuot, killed by Standish 56 
Penalties provided 82 

Pequot tribe of Indians 82 

Penalty for refusing to serve • 
as Governor 74 

Philip makes friendly profes- 
sions 118 
Philip and his brother re- 
ceive English names 119 
Philip's war 135 
Phipps, Sir William, arrives 159 
Physicians who have resided 

in town 307 

Pilgrim Hall 244, 310 

Pilgrim Society 333, 337 

Plain Dealing 134, 323 

Plymouth, boundaries of 163 
declaration of rights 78 

laws 78, 116 

Plymouth colony divided into 

3 counties 146 

Plymouth council 79 

Plympton set off from Ply- 
mouth 164, 169 
Pokanoket, seat of Massa- 

soit, visit to 38, 52 

Poor provided for 84, 146 

Price of produce regulated 158 

\Prince, Governor, Thomas 66, 75 

82 

his death and character 134 
Public worship to be support- 
ed 138 
Public buildings 300 
Punishments inflicted 37, 38, 78 

90,117,118 
Puritans 14 

a. 

Quadequina, Indian chief 34 

Quakers intrude themselves 111 

R. 
Rates imposed 124 
Religious tenets of Ply- 
mouth e an fathers 265 



Representatives of Old Col- 
ony 161 
Reward for killing wolves 89 
for killing wild cats 172 
for killing rats and black- 
birds 174 
Rayner, Rev. John 266, 271 
Rider, John, kills 3 deer at 

one shot 314 

Robinson, Rev. John 14, 66 

his farewell sermon 262 

his farewell letter 263 

his death and character 263,264 

his widow and son Isaac 67 

Robinson, Isaac 115, 116 

Robinson Congregational 

Church 292 

Robbins, Rcv.Chandler, D.D. 285 
his ordination, death, and 
character 286, 287 

Rock, forefathers', and mon- 
umental enclosure of it 29, 198 
199 

S. 
Sacrifice rocks 323 

Samoset visits the settlers 33, 34 
Sampson, Capt. Simeon, and 

descendants 215 

Sampson, Zabdiel, Esq. 251 

Saquish 330 

Sargent's picture 249, 257 

Sassaman, John, murdered, 

murderers executed 135 

Scammel, Alexander 186 

Secretaries of the colony 161 
Selectmen first chosen 89 

office and duties of 123 

Selectmen required to reg- 
ulate disorderly and idle 
persons 123 

Settlers examine the harbor 24 
lose their common house 
by fire 31 

Sever, William. Esq. 195 

Shaw, Ichabod 242 

Shallop of Mayflower expos- 
ed to imminent danger 20, 22 
Sheep pasture 331 

Ship building 334 



12 



CONTENTS. 



' Ships Ann and Little James 58,60 
Shipwreck at Cape Ann 77 

Shipwreck of Capt. Magee 
in Plymouth harbor 210 

of Hibernia, Capt. Farrel 219 
Shirley, James 69 

Sickness among the settlers 32,75 
Smith, Rev. xMr. Ralph 71, 266 
Smith's statistical account of 

Plymouth 65 

Societies in town 337 

Souther, Nathaniel 161 

Southworth, Thomas 108, 126 
Southworth, Constant 108, 127 
Southworth, Mrs. Elice 107 

South pond 320 

Speedwell proves unfit for 
the voyage, and is relin- 
quished 16 
Spooner, Ephraim 28,29,222 

229, 231 
Sprague, Samuel 161 

Squanto, Indian 34, 45, 46, 47, 50 
Stacy, Rev. Joseph 280 

Stages 335 

Stamp act 178 

Standish, Capt. Miles 17, 19, 32 
42, 45, 50, 51, 6Ci 
his death and character 111 
113 
Stone arch bridge 323 

Strawberry hill 323 

Steam boat 318 

Stetson, Rev. Seth 281 

Stocks and whipping post 81 
Stores and warehouses 319 

Storm, tremendous one 77 

Streets and squares 310,311 

Style, old and new 16 

Sullivan, Hon. William 254 

Synod 373 

T. 
Tar making prohibited 128 

Taverns 335 

Tea, sale of prohibited 197, 200 

201 
Temperance societies 337 

Thacher Anthony 77 

Third Church and congrega- 
tion 290 



Thomas, Col. Joho 90 

Thomas, Nathaniel 90, 170 

Thomas, William 90 

Thomas, Dr. William 90, 218 
Thomas, Joshua, Hon. 238 

Tisdale, Samuel T. Esq. 200 

Tonnage 316 

Topography and statistics 308 
Tories and Whigs 203 

Town clerks ordered to be 

chosen 88 

Town clerks, list of J 63 

Town, spirited conduct of 198 

202 
Town council 145 

Town brook 321,322 

Town petitions Congress to 
repair the beach 242 

petitionsLegislature to pro- 
hibit fires in the woods 242 
Town reduced to great difii- 

culties 209, 212 

Town expenses 309 

Town, description of 309 

Town instructs representa- 
tives 201, 202, 208 
Town votes against the sale 

of spirituous liquors 242 

Town square 311 

Town votes thanks to the 
town of Boston, and in fa- 
vor of the clergy 200 
Town votes to build a new 

court-house 175 

Town petitions against em- 
bargo and war 223 
Town defends its right to 

Clark's island 151 

Town treasurers 161 

Training Green 311 

Treaty with Massasoit 35, 36 

U. 
United colonies of NewEng- 

land 85 

Universalist Society 292 

W. 
Wadsworth, Peleg 184 

Walley, Rev.Mr. 273 

Wampum 70 

Wampum's war 170 



CONTENTS. 



13 



Warren, Richard, his wife 

and descendants 70 

Warren, James 170 

Warren, James, Hon. death 

and character 224 

Warren, Henry and James 226 
War, American, termination 

of 213 

War of 1812 227 

Washey, Chinese gentleman 227 
Wareham set off 174 

Washington, death of noticed 217 
Watch-house on Fort Hill 86,137 
Watson, John and son, death 

of 173 

Watson, George, death and 

character 217 

Watson, William, death and 

character 228 

Watson, John 234, 244, 250 

Watson's Hill 35 

Wattawamat 51, 56 

Webster, Daniel, Hon. 233 

Weetamore, squaw Sachem 124 
Wessagusset 48 

West, Frances 58 

Whales in the Bay 21 

Whale marked, but escaped 173 



Whale fishery 317 

Wharves 319 

Whitfield 284 

White,William,and descend- 
ants 23 
White, Peregrine 23, 124 
White, Susannah 23 
Hannah 23 
Gideon 23 
Whitmore, Rev. Benjamin 291 
Williams, Roger 266 
Williams, James Rev. 273 
Winslow, Edward, Got. 23, 35 
47, 52, 53, 61, 74, 76, 88, 90 
to 103 
Winslow, Josiah, Governor, 139 
his death and character, 
&c. to 144 
Winslow, General, John and 

descendants 143 

Wilson, Rev. Mr. 73 

Winthrop, Governor, visits 
Plymouth 73 

his death 89 

Wolves and wolf traps 86, 89 
Wiswall, Rev. Mr. 159 

Willet, Thomas 120 



CONTENTS OF INDIAN HISTORY. 

American Indians described; their dress, women, attachment to 
their children, 355. Wigwams, food, education, occupation, drunk- 
enness, war weapons, 356. Formidable appearance when arrayed 
for war ; war dance and smoking war pipe ; mode of warfare ; cruel 
treatment of prisoners ; mode of scalping, 358. Gravity of deport- 
ment, public speaking, hospitality, implacability to enemies, religion, 
priests or pawaws, 359. Form of Government ; Paniese attempts to 
christianize them ; anecdote of Indian Deacon ; of Naughaut, 361. 
Anecdote of an Indian and Lieut. Governor Dudley, 362. Anecdote 
of two Indian chiefs, 363. Wampanoags or Pokanokets ; Massasoit, 
their chief; his life and character, his interview with Gov. Carver, 
and a treaty formed, 365. Winslow and Hopkins visit Massasoit, 
and carry him a laced coat. Winslow and Hampden visit Massasoit 
when sick; Massasoit informs of a combination against the English, 
365. His great aversion to the Christian religion ; he and the Nar- 
ragansets implacable enemies ; he and his son renew their treaty 
with the court, 366. Ousamequin sells to Capt. Standish a tract of 
land. Capt. Thomas Dermer visits the country of Massasoit and 
brings Squanto, who had been kidnapped, 366. The Pequods, their 
dreadful slaughter of men, women and children, and their tribe van- 
quished by the English, 367. The Narragansets, Canonicus, their 
chief; his friendship for Roger Williams, 368. He sends a war chal- 
lenge to Governor Bradford, 369. Potok, an active warrior, taken 
and executed, 369. Massachusetts tribe ; Chickataubut, a Sachem of 
note ; his visit to Gov. Winthrop, 370. Awashonks treats with the 
court ; her letter to Gov. Prince. She unites with Philip in the war 
with the English, 371. Capt. B. Church rashly visits her camp, and 
is exposed to the utmost danger. His uncommon boldness and pres- 
ence of mind. His complete success in detaching her from the war, 
373. Corbitant,a distinguished Sacbem ; the Nausets, Aspinet their 
Sachem. Canonchet, a great warrior ; he submits to the sentence 
of death with great firmness, 373. Alexander, son of Massasoit ; 
account of his life and unfortunate death, 374. King Philip, and 
Philip's war. His interesting history, 376. His interview with Gov. 
Prince, at Taunton, and his haughty demeanor. They hold a con- 
ference, under arms, in Taunton meeting-house, 377. Philip agrees 
to articles of accommodation, 378 ; his letter to Gov. Prince, 379. 
John Sassamon murdered ; his murderers tried, condemned, and exe- 
cuted ; thejuiy who tried them, 381. Philip's war commences ; Eng- 



CONTENTS OP INDIAN HISTORY. 15 

lish troops raised, and Gen. Joseph Winslow appointed chief com- 
mander ; his instructions and orders, 382. Narraganset tribe form 
alliance with Philip, 384. The English troops prepare for battle. 
Philip's fort and camp described. Gen. Winslow's army marches to 
attack the enemy ; the conflict is awful ; two captains and a number 
of men are killed at the first onset ; the English fall back, but again 
rally, and renew the attack, and gain the victory, with immense 
slaughter of men, women and children, 385. Result of the memo- 
rable Nartaganset swamp fight, 386. Extreme suffering of Gen. 
Winslow's army, 387. Predatory warfare kept up by the Indians ; 
Clark's house assaulted and the people slaughtered, 387. Bravery 
of Capt. Church, 388. Philip attempts to surprise Taunton. He 
loses many of his men, with his wife and son captured, and is himself 
driven into a swamp, 388. Philip is killed, beheaded, and quartered ; 
his character, 389. Great sacrifices of the English, 390. Uncharita- 
ble remarks of Dr. Mather, 391. Treatment of Indian prisoners, 
392. Capt. Church boldly resolves to hunt in the forest for Anna- 
wam ; finds him in his den and captures him, 393. Annawam makes 
a speech, and delivers to Capt. Church King Philip's regalia, 394. 
Josselyn's account of Philip and his dress, 394. Annawam beheaded 
atPlymouth, and Tispiquin put to death contrary to the entreaty of 
Capt. Church and the laws of honor, 395. Cruel treatment of Phil- 
ip's son, 396. Anecdote of King Philip ; Roger Williams's letter in 
favor of the Indians, 397. Sam Barrow executed, 397. Anecdote of 
Indian Sachems, 398. Extract of a letter from Capt. Gerrish, 399. 
Curious letter. 399. 



HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

PART I. 



The imperious causes, justly assigned by the Pilgrims for their 
abandonment of their native country, and the numerous cruel 
obstacles, which they were called to encounter, even in their 
attempts at emigration, have been at various periods, and by the 
pens of able historians, promulgated to the world. I shall there- 
fore omit these particulars without apology. It was in the reigns 
of Queen Elizabeth, King James and Charles the First, 
that the wicked dominion of tyranny and oppression, both in 
church and state, had become so intolerable, that a portion of 
their subjects in the north of England, were compelled to aban- 
don the soil of their fathers, and subject themselves to the mis- 
erable condition of exiles in a foreign land. This little band of 
pilgrim brothers, cheerfully sacrificed all they held dear in their 
native land, for the inestimable enjoyment of civil and religious 
liberty. They constituted themselves into a church, of which 
Mr. John Robinson was the pastor, and under extreme embar- 
rassment and difficulty, effected their emigration to Hol- 
land, and took up their residence in the city of Leyden, in the 
year 1610, where they remained in peaceful and quiet enjoy- 
ment about eleven years. Having numerous and insurmounta- 
ble objections to the country of the Dutch, as a permanent resi- 
dence for themselves and posterity, they deliberately decided 
on the ever memorable enterprise, of transporting themselves 
to this remote and unexplored region, where they might enjoy 
their worship, and opinions unmolested; well aware, that 
their religion and virtue might make the wilderness, and the 
solitary place be glad, and the desert rejoice, and blossom 
as the rose. And where, I would ask, is the event in Divine 
Providence, more worthy of particular and grateful commemo- 
ration ? 

It is a delightful task to retrospect to those interesting scenes, 
where in every step we can discover a christian faith, and holy 
2 



14 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1617, 18, 19 

zeal, and in every exigence the guidance and protection of Al- 
mighty power and wisdom. While the establishment of a colony, 
and an independent church, were their primary objects, it was or- 
dained by God, that our fathers should be, in silence and in 
peace, the founders of a nation. It is my agreeable employment 
to search the records of our ancestors, and collate the memo- 
rials of their cheerless days, to follow our pious fathers, and 
their immediate descendants, through the vicissitudes of two 
centuries, and compare their forlorn condition with the improv- 
ed state of society in our own times. Not a step do we take, 
but we trace the footsteps of the pilgrims; our possessions were 
their possessions; not the town only, but the whole country is a 
monument of their noble sacrifices. In portraying the history 
of the town, we disclose the essential elements of the puritan 
character, and demonstrate the magnanimous spirit, by which 
the puritans were actuated and sustained. In the year 1617, 
the church under Mr. Robinson, employed Mr. Robert Cush- 
man, and Mr. John Carver, as their agents to the Virginia 
Company, to obtain a grant of territory for settlement, and, 
at the same time, security from the king, that they should 
enjoy religious freedom. They met with many impediments, 
and returned in May, 1618, with encouragement from the Vir- 
ginia Company relative to a grant of territory, and a simple 
pronyse, on the part of the crown, 'that the king would connive 
at them, and not molest them, provided that they carried peace- 
ably ; ' but toleration would not be granted by public authority 
under his seal. In February, 1619, Mr. Cushman and Mr. 
Bradford were despatched on the same business. After long 
attendance, they obtained a patent, which was then taken out in 
the name of John Wincob, a religious gentleman in the family 
of the Countess of Lincoln, who intended to accompany them, 
but was providentially prevented. This patent, therefore, was 
never used, but carried, however, to Leyden for the people, 
and such friends and merchants as should adventure with 
them, to consider, with several proposals for their transmi- 
gration made by Mr. Thomas Weston of London. Finding 
all their efforts for obtaining a patent adequate to their wants 
and circumstances fail them, they negotiated with the Virginia 
Company for a tract of land within the limits of their patent, 
and resolved to commit themselves in faith and confidence to 
the protecting arm of Almighty power, and encounter the 
perils of the ocean, directing their course to Hudson's river. 
Their sufferings and perils during the voyage, and after their 
arrival, were unparalleled, but they were supported by a noble 
fortitude and a consciousness of a faithful discharge of religious 



1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 15 

duty. ^ Of all the monuments/ says an elegant writer, ^ raised 
to the memory of distinguished men, the most approptiate, and 
the least exceptionable, are those whose foundations are laid in 
their own works, and which are constructed of materials, sup- 
plied and wrought by their own labors.'* It is incumbent, 
therefore, on the historian, to transmit faithfully and impartially 
to posterity the genuine materials, that the noble fabric may 
with facility be constructed and rendered conspicuous. If the 
glorified spirits of our forefathers can be supposed sensible to 
what passes in this world, where they acted their part, they 
must enjoy the most sublime recompense, in the knowledge that, 
by the wisdom and goodness of God, the little band of pilgrims 
have been multiplied to millions, and that their posterity are per- 
mitted to assemble in superb edifices to sing their maker's praise, 
and recount the toils and virtuous principles of the pious 
founders of our empire. The vessels designed for the transpor- 
tation of the emigrants across the Atlantic, were the Speedwell, 
of 60 tons, of which Mr. Reynolds was master, and the May- 
flower of 180 tons, of which Mr. Jones was master. A govern- 
or, and two assistants were chosen for each vessel, whose duties 
were to preserve regular order among the passengers, and 
direct the disposal of the provisions, and other necessary 
concerns. The emigrants being prepared for their departure, 
the Speedwell received them on board at Delfthaven, in Hol- 
land, July 22d, 1620, and proceeded to Southampton, in Eng- 
land, where they found the Mayflower prepared to accompany 
them. At the quay at Delfthaven, a multitude of people assem- 
bled to witness the embarkation of the first company destined 
to people the new world, and to unite their sympathies and 
prayers for their safety and prosperity. At the moment of their 
going on board, Mr. Robinson fell on his knees, and with eyes 
overflowing with tears, in a most fervent and solemn prayer, 
committed them to their Divine protector. 

" The winds and waves are roaring : 
The pilgrims met for prayer ; 
And here their God adoring, 
They knelt in open air." 

Whose imagination can paint a scene so vibrating to the 
chords of sympathy? Parents and children on bended knees, 
imploring the protection of heaven, when about to be separated 
forever from their dearest friends and possessions, and go they 
know not whither! 

* Hon. Josiah Quincy, in the life of his father. 



16 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 

The two ships sailed from Southampton in company on the 5th 
of August, 1620, but they had not proceeded far, when the 
Speedwell was found to be too leaky to perform the voyage, 
and both vessels put into the harbor of Dartmouth, where the 
leaks were stopped. After which, they again proceeded on 
their voyage, but the same vessel again proved unseaworthy, 
and they both repaired to Plymouth harbor, where the Speed- 
well was discharged from the service, and all those who were 
unwilling to proceed on the voyage were dismissed with the 
Captain of the Speedwell, who, from bribery, probably, proved 
himself unfaithful to his trust, and the whole company was 
crowded into the Mayflower. This ship, after many disheart- 
ening vicissitudes, sailed from Plyrpouth, the last English port, 
September 6th, 1620, but, on her voyage, had to encounter 
contrary winds and boisterous storms, by which she suffered 
great damage, and was exposed to imminent danger. With 
much difficulty, she was repaired at sea, and enabled to per- 
form the voyage. The adventurers made the land of Cape 
Cod, * the 9th of November. After some deliberation between 
the master and passengers, it was resolved to tack about, and di- 
rect their course to the South, according to their original destina- 
tion to Hudson's river. But soon finding themselves among dan- 
gerous shoals and breakers, and the season being far advanced, 
they abandoned this design, and on the 11th of November, Old 
Style, "I" anchored safely in the harbor of Cape Cod, being 
in number 101 English settlers, including 28 females, who 

* Cape Cod received its name fi-om Captain Gosnold, who caught 
abundance of Codfish there when he discovered it in 1602. 

f Explanation of Old and New Style. 
\/ The correction of the Calendar by Pope Gregoiy, in 1582, was 
not adopted by the British Parliament till 1751, when it was directed 
that eleven days in September, 1752, should be retrenched, and the 
third day of that month reckoned the fourteenth. This mode 
of reckoning was called JVew Style, or the Gregorian account, and 
the year was made to commence on the fii-st of January, instead of 
the 25th of March, as formerly. The Old Style, or Julian account, 
is so called from Julius CcBsar, who regulated the Calendar about 40 
years before Christ. Before the year 1752, there was sometimes a 
confusion in dates, being difficult to determine, whether January, 
Februaiy, and a part of March closed the year, or began the new- 
one. Hence the mode of double dates, as March 20th, 1676-7. 
This would be 1676, Old Style, because it would lack five days to 
complete the year, but in the New Style it would be 77, because, 
according to that style, the year commenced the first day of January, 
and Mai'ch would be the third month of the new year. The double 
dating has not been practised since the year 1752. 

In the Massachusetts Colony, our ancestoi-s numbered the days of 



1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 17 

accompanied their husbands, and 42 children and servants. 
The number of males qualified to act in state affairs being for- 
ty-one. On their arrival, their spirits aspired to heaven, and 
falling on their knees, they blessed God, who had brought them 
over the furious ocean, and delivered them from many perils 
and miseries. The original destination of the settlers was Hud- 
son's river, that they might be within the Virginia patent; but 
according to the positive assertion of Secretary Morton, the 
(^tain was bribed by the Dutch Governor to conduct them to 
New England, and thereby place them beyond the protection of 
any English charter. This Providential event, however, proved 
auspicious to their enterprise and future prosperity, as the na- 
tive inhabitants of the place had been destroyed by pestilence a 
few years before, whereas the natives at and near the Hudson, 
were so numerous, that a landing there would have proved ex- 
tremely hazardous, if not absolutely impracticable. * On the 
day of their arrival at Cape Cod, they landed 15 or 16 men, 
headed by Captain Miles Standish, well provided with arms, to 
procure wood, and to reconnoitre the place. They immediate- 
ly commenced repairing their shallop, that they might explore 
the harbors and shores. Well apprised of the value and neces- 
sity of a form of civil government to restrain the vicious and 
strengthen their momentous undertaking^, these honest-hearted 
people, before leaving the cabin of the Mayflower, but not be- 
fore solemnly invoking the Throne of the almighty, unanimous- 
ly subscribed to the following judicious compact providing for 
equal and social rights, and promising subordination and obe- 
dience to the laws. This first essay in the civilized world to 
found a republican constitution of government, ought in justice 
to immortalize the names affixed to the instrument which has 
proved the charter of our liberties. 

the week, beginning as the 1st, 2d, 3d, &c. to the 7th, which is Sat- 
urday, and the mouths, according to the Roman Calendar, beginning 
with'March as the 1st, 2d, 3d, &c. to February, because they wished 
to avoid all memory of, or reference to, heathenish and idol names. 

* November, 17th, 1620, William Butten, a youth, and servant to 
Samuel Fuller, died at sea, bemg the only passenger who died on the 
voyage. 

December 15th, died, Edward Thompson, servant of Mr. White, 
the first death afi;er their arrival at Cape Cod. 

December 17th, died, Jasper, a son of Mr. Carver. 

". 18th, drowned, Dorothy Bradford wife of Mr. Wm. B. 
" 19th, died, James Chilton. 

January 1st, 1621, died, Richard Britterige, the first who died in 
Plymouth harbor. 



18 



HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 



[1620 



'In the name of God, Amen. We whose names are under- 
written, the loyal subjects of our dread sovereign lord, King 
James, by the grace of God, of Great Britain, France and Ire- 
land, king, defender of the faith, Slc, having undertaken for the 
glory of God and advancement of the christian faith and honor 
of our King and country, a voyage to plant the first colony in 
the northern parts of Virginia, do, by these presents, solemnly 
and mutually, in the presence of God and of one another, cove- 
nant and combine ourselves together into a civil body politic, 
for our better ordering and preservation, and furtherance of the 
ends aforesaid; and by virtue hereof, do enact, constitute, and 
frame such just and equal laws and ordinances, acts, constitu- 
tions, and offices, from time to time, as shall be thought most 
meet and convenient for the general good of the colony, unto 
which we promise all due subjection and obedience. In witness 
whereof, we have hereunto subscribed our names, at Cape Cod, 
x^the 11th day of November, in the year of the reign of our sove- 
reign Lord, King James of England, France and Ireland, the 
eighteenth, and of Scotland the fifty-fourth, Anno Domini, 
1620.' 

This compact was subscribed in the fallowing order by 



No. in Family 


r. 


No. in Famil 


Y- 


Mr. John Carver,! 


8 


* Thomas Rogers, 


2 


Mr. William Bradford,! 


2 


* Thomas Tinker,! 


3 


Mr. Edward Winslow,! 


5 


* John Ridgdale,! 


2 


Mr. William Brewster,! 


6 


* Edward Fuller,! 


3 


Mr. Isaac AUerton,! 


6 


* John Turner, 


3 


Capt. Miles Standish,! 


2 


Francis Eaton,! 


3 


John Alden, 


1 


* James Chilton,! 


3 


Mr. Samuel Fuller, 


2 


* John Crackston, 


2 


* Mr. Christopher Martin,! 


4 


John Billington,! 


4 


* Mr. William Mullins,t 


5 


* Moses Fletcher, 


I 


* Mr. William White,! 


5 


* John Goodman, 


1 


(Besides a son born in Cape 




* Degory Priest, 


1 


Cod harbor, and named 




* Thomas Wilhams, 


1 


Peregrine) 




Gilbert Winslow, 


1 


Mr. Richard Warren, 


1 


* Edward Margeson, 


1 


John Howland, (of Carver's 




Peter Brown, 


1 


family,) 




* Richard Britterige, 


1 


Mr. Stephen Hopkins,! 


8 


George Soule, (of Edward 




* Edward Tilly,! 


4 


Winslow's family) 




* John Tilly,! 


S 


* Richard Clarke, 


1 


Francis Cook, 


2 


1 Richard Gardiner, 


1 



t Those with this mark brought their wives. 
* Those who died before the end of the next March are distin- 
guished by an asterisk. 



1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 19 



No. in Family, 
ter, (both of Stephen Hop- 
kins's family.) 



No. in Family. 

* John Allerton, 1 

* Thomas English, 1 
Edward Dotey, Edward Leis- 

* This brief, and comprehensive, and simple instrument estab- 
lished a most important principle, a principle which is the foun- y/ 
dation of all the democratic institutions of America, and is the 
basis of the republic; and however it may be expanded and 
complicated in our various constitutions, however unequally 
power may be distinguished in the different branches of our va- 
rious governments, has imparted to each its strongest and most 
striking characteristic. 

Many philosophers have since appeared, who have, in labor- 
ed treatises, endeavored to prove the doctrine, that the rights of 
man are unalienable, and nations have bled to defend and en- 
force them, yet in this dark age, the age of despotism and su- 
perstition, when no tongue dared to assert, and no pen to write 
this bold and novel doctrine, which was then as much at defi- 
ance with common opinion as with actual power, of which the 
monarch was then held to be the sole fountain, and the theory 
was universal, that all popular rights were granted by the crown, 
in this remote wilderness, amongst a small and unknown band > 
of wandering outcasts, the principle that the icill of the majority^^ 
of the people shall govern^ w^s first conceived, and was first prac- 
tically exemplified. 

The pilgrims, from their notions of primitive Christianity, the 
force of circumstances, and that pure moral feeling which is the 
offspring of true religion, discovered a truth in the science of 
government which had been concealed for ages. On the bleak 
shore of a barren wilderness, in the midst of desolation, with the 
blast of winter howling around them, and surrounded with dan- 
gers in their most awful and appalling forms, the pilgrims of 
Leyden laid the foundation of American -liberty.' — Baylies, vol. 
i. p. 29. 

John Carver was elected to officiate as Governor for one year. 
Seventeen days elapsed before the shallop could be repaired fit 
for service ; during the interval, the new comers employed them- 
selves in exploring the shores in the long-boat, and traversing 
the woods on Cape Cod. On Monday, November 13th, the 
women were set ashore to wash, and their shallop brought on 
shore for repairs. The m^n formed a company to travel into 
the interior to view the land, and endeavor to discover the in- 
habitants: they were commanded by Capt. Miles Standish, well 
armed, and master Jones, of the Mayflower, being desirous of 
joining in the excursion, was made their pioneer. They spent 



20 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 

two or three days ranging the woods, and saw five Indians 
at some distance, but they were shy and kept out of reach. 
They discovered no houses, but found a large iron ship's kettle, 
and near it a considerable quantity of variously colored Indian 
corn in the ears, buried under ground in handsome baskets. 
This was a new article to the settlers, and they availed them- 
selves of the opportunity to supply their wants. They carried 
away the kettle and a quantity of corn, with the honest inten- 
tion of replacing them when opportunity should offer, which they 
eventually did. 

The place which they visited was Pamet River, now in Truro. 
Whilst wandering in the woods they observed a young sapling 
bent down to the earth, and some acorns strewed underneath. 
Stephen Hopkins said it was a deer trap ; Mr. William Bradford, 
afterwards governor, stepping too near, it gave a sudden jerk up- 
v/ards and caught him by the leg ; it was said to have been a pretty 
device, made with a rope of Indian fabric, and having a noose 
so ingeniously contrived as to answer all the purposes of entrap- 
ping deer. When the shallop was fit for service, 34 men em- 
barked in her, and the long-boat, on an excursion to explore 
the shores in search of a place for settlement. They landed at 
the mouth of Pamet River, in Truro, to which they gave the 
name of Cold Harbor, the weather being extremely cold and 
stormy. From thence they marched several miles into the woods, 
without making any satisfactory discovery, but shot two geese 
and six ducks, which served them well for supper. In their 
travels they found sundry sand heaps, under which they found 
Indian corn, and named the place Corn Hill. They found also 
two or three baskets of Indian wheat, a bag of beans, and a 
bottle of oil. From this store they took to themselves about ten 
bushels of corn and beans, which afforded them essential relief, 
and supplied them with seed corn, for which they resolved to 
make restitution. Having marched 5 or 6 miles into the woods, 
they saj[V neither houses nor inhabitants, but came to a large 
square, having the appearance of a capacious burial-place. On 
digging in the ground, they met with mats, a bow, a carved 
board, bowls, trays, dishes, and trinkets. Under a large new mat 
were two bundles; on opening the largest, there was discovered 
a quantity of fine red powder, in which was enveloped the bones 
and skull of a man. The skull was covered with yellow hair, 
and there were bound up with it a knife, a pack-needle, and 
pieces of old iron. It was bound up in a sailor's canvass cas- 
sock, and a pair of cloth breeches. The red powder was a kind 
of embahnent, and yielded a strong but not offensive smell. * 

* A French ship had been wrecked on the shore of Cape Cod a 



1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 21 

In the lesser package was the same kind of powder, and the 
bones and head of a little child ; about the legs and some other 
parts were bound strings and bracelets of fine white beads: there 
were also a little bow and some trinkets. Whilst searching in 
the woods, two of the sailors discovered two Indian houses, from 
which the inhabitants had lately departed. They were formed 
with long young sapling trees, bended, and both ends stuck 
into the ground, and covered, tops and sides, with well-wrought 
mats. Within were found wooden bowls, trays, and dishes, 
earthernpots,hand-baskets made ofcrab-shells wrought together, 
also an English pail or bucket. Here were also deers* heads, 
horns and feet, eagles' claws, two or three baskets full of 
parched acorns, and pieces of herrings, and other fishes. 

It now became a question with the settlers whether Cape 
Cod should be adopted as their permanent residence, or search 
be made for a more eligible situation. In their deliberation on 
the occasion, different opinions resulted. In favor of the place 
it was alleged, 1st, that the harbor was convenient for boats 
though not for ships: 2d, there was good corn ground, as was 
evident by the remaining stubble : 3d, it was a place of profitable 
fishing; for large whales of the best kind for oil and bone, came 
daily along side and played about the ship. The master and 
his mate, and others experienced in fishing, preferred it to 
Greenland whale-fishery, and asserted that were they provided 
with the proper implements £3,000 or £4,000 worth of oil might 
be obtained: 4th, the place was likely to prove healthful, secure 
and defensible. But the last and special reason was the unfavor- 
able season, it being winter, and the weather was so exceedingly 
tempestuous, cold and stormy, that every movement was attended 
with imminent danger. And whether a more convenient place 
could be found, was very doubtful, as no one was acquainted with 
the country. On the other hand, it was urged, 1st, that the 
shore was so shallow that the men were obliged to wade in 
water over their knees in going to and from their shallop, by 
which many had taken colds and coughs, whereof some had 
died: 2d, there was a place called Agawam, alias Angawam, 
(Ipswich,) about 20 leagues to the northward, which had been 
reported as having an excellent harbor for ships, and better soil 
and fishing: 3d, there might be at no great distance abetter seat, 
and it would be unfortunate to locate where they should be 

few years before, from which they probably obtained the iron kettle 
and carved board, &c. The skull, with the yellow hair, undoubted- 
ly belonged to one of the seamen wrecked in the French ship, 
three of whom it appears were suffered to live for sometime among 
the natives. 



22 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 

obliged to remove again: 4th, there was a scarcity of water at that 
place, and none could be had without bringing it up a steep hill. 
Besides, Robert Coppin, the pilot, affirmed that there was a 
navigable river and good harbor in the other head-land of this 
bay, over against Cape Cod, about eight leagues distance, 
where he had once been, and which, a native having stolen a 
harping iron from them, they had named Thievish Harbor. 
It was at length resolved to endeavor to make some further 
discovery within the bay, but not to range so far as Agawam. 
About this time an incident occurred which might have been 
attended with fatal consequences. A son of Francis Billington, 
in the absence of his father, having procured some gun-pow- 
der, made squibs and fired them, and finding his father's fowling- 
piece charged, shot it off in the cabin where there was a 
small barrel half full of powder, and many, people near the fire, 
but no one was injured. 

On Wednesday, December 6th, the company sailed on a 
third excursion for discovery ; the weather was so intensely cold 
that the water froze every moment on their clothes, and two of 
the men were greatly overcome. On their approach to the 
shore at Eastham, they discovered 10 or 12 Indians engaged in 
cutting up a grampus, but they soon fled. Two other grampuses 
were dead on the shore, having been cast on the land; the fat 
on their sides was two inches thick, affording abundance of oil. 
The English landed on the shore, made a barricado, planted 
sentinels, and took lodgings beside a fire, and saw the smoke 
from the Indian's fire 4 or 5 miles from them. In the morning 
part of the company kept in the shallop, and the rest ranged the 
woods. A large burial-place was discovered, partly encompass- 
ed wiih a palisado, like a church-yard, and filled with graves of 
various sizes. At night they took their lodgings in the shallop, 
and at about midnight hideous cries were heard, and the senti- 
nel called, arms! arms! but by firing two guns the noise ceased. 
About five o'clock in the morning the noises were renewed and 
they had only time to cry out 'Indians! Indians!' when the 
arrows came flying thickly about them. The English ran with 
all speed to receive their guns, and in a moment bullets were 
exchanged for arrows, but no exchange could be a match for 
the dreadful Indian yells. There was a lusty Indian, supposed 
to be their captain, who placed himself behind a tree, discharg- 
ed three arrows, and stood three shots from a musket, till at 
length a charge struck the tree, when he gave a horrid yell, 
and fled. Eighteen of their arrows were taken up aiid sent to 
their friends in England, by master Jones, of the Mayflower; 
some were headed with brass, some with deer's horns, and 



1620] I-IISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 23 

Others with eagles' claws; but the contest ended without blood- 
shed on either side. It was about this time that the wife of Wm. 
White was favored with the birth of a son, whom they named 
Peregrine, being the first English child born in New England.* 
After the skirmish with the Indians, the pilgrims rendered 
thanks to God for their preservation, and named the place the 
First Encounter. In the afternoon of the same day, Decem- 
ber 8th, the shallop departed from the cape on a cruise of dis- 
covery, with the following persons on board: — Governor Car- 
ver, Mr. Wilham Bradford, I Edward Winslow, Capt. Miles 
Standish, John Rowland, Mr. Warren, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Ed- 
ward Tilly, Mr. John Tilly, Mr. Clarke, John Allerton, Thomas 
English and Edward Dotey, together with Coppin, the pilot, 
the master gunner of the ship, and three of the common sea- 
men, making eighteen in the whole. The pilot assured them 
that there was a harbor of which he had some knowledge, 
which they could reach before night. J They were in the 
afternoon overtaken by a violent storm, the wind and rain 
increasing, and the sea raging with rough and heavy surges, by 
which the hinges of their rudder were broken, and they were 
obliged to steer the shallop by oars in the hands of two men 
stationed at the helm. Not long after^ in their severe struggle, 
their mast was severed in three pieces, and the sails went 

* William White died in the ensuing- spring-. His widow Susannah, 
married Edward Winslow, who was the third governor of the colony ; 
this marriage was solemnized May 12th, 1621, and was the first 
marriage in New England. She was the mother of Peregrine White, 
the first child born of English parents in the colony. Peregrine 
White died at Marshfield, July 20th, 1704, aged 83 years and eight 
months. His children by Sarah, his wife, were Daniel, Sarah, Mary, 
Jonathan, Peregrine, Sylvanus. Children of Daniel White and Han- 
nah his wife, were John, Joseph, Thomas, Cornelius, Benjamin, Elea- 
zer, Ebenezer. Children of Cornelius White and Hannah his wife, 
Lemuel, Cornelius, Paul, Joanna, Daniel, Gideon, Benjamin. Child- 
ren of Gideon White and Joanna Howland his wife, were Cornelius, 
("died 1779) Joanna married Pelham Winslow, (died 1829) Hannah 
still survives at Plymouth, Gideon (died at Nova Scotia, 1833), Polly 
still survives, Elizabeth, Experience and Thomas. Deacon Joseph 
White, great grand-son of Peregrine, resided at Yarmouth, where 
he died not many years since, and where some of his descendants 
still survive. 

t While Mr. William Bradford was absent in the shallop, his wife 
Dorothy accidentally fell overboard from the Mayflower at Cape 
Cod and was drowned. 

t It is not improbabl© that the pilot had visited this shore with 
Capt. Smith or Hunt, in 1614. 



24 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 

overboard. In passing the point called the Gurnet's nose, at 
the mouth of Plymouth harbor, the pilot finding himself deceived, 
and greatly alarmed, exclaimed ' Lord be merciful ! ' my eyes 
never saw this place before; and he with the master's mate 
would have run the boat ashore before the wind in a cove among 
breakers; which cove is between the Gurnet head and Saquish 
point. But a more resolute seaman at the helm making un- 
common exertions, and urging the oarsmen, the boat was with 
difficulty put about, and they fortunately reached the lee of a 
small island, in the midst of a heavy rain, and the darkness of 
night, where they came safe to anchor, and in the night they 
landed and kindled a fire. The next morning they found the 
island was uninhabited, and as it was the last day of the week, 
and extremely cold, they employed themselves in drying their 
clothes, cleaning their arms, and repairing their shallop. The 
following day, the tenth, being the christian sabbath, and the 
first ever observed in New England, they devoted themselves 
in pious gratitude for their preservation and safe arrival. As 
Mr. Clark, the master's mate was the first to land on the island, 
it received his name, which it still retains. * 

Memorable Landing of the First Settlers. 

On Monday, the 11 th day of October, O. S. they proceeded 
from the island in their shallop, to sound and examine the har- 
bor, and to their unspeakable joy, found it commodious and 
'fit for shipping.' A part of their number, no names men- 
tioned, landed, went some distance into the country, and ex- 
amined the territory contiguous to the shore, where they found 
cleared land which had been planted with Indian corn, two or 
three years before, and a beautiful running brook, and numerous 
springs of the purest water. Having selected this as the most 
eligible situation for a permanent settlement yet discovered, 
they re-embarked on board the shallop and returned to the ship, 
at Cape Cod, announcing to the anxious pilgrims the joyful 
tidings of their discoveries, and the cheering prospects which 
Providence had opened to their view. This, then, is to be 
considered as the first stepping on the Rock of the Pilgrims 
from the shallop belonging to the Mayflower, and this is the 
birth day of our nation. The day which has been annually 
celebrated in commemoration of this momentous event, the 
landing of the forefathers, is the twenty-second of December, 
N, S. which has hitherto been supposed to correspond with the 

* See a tradition respecting this when describing the island, at 
the latter end of the volume. 



1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 25 

eleventh, O. S; but to reconcile the difference between old 
and new style in the century in which they arrived, only ten 
days, instead of eleven, should be added to their computation, 
which would make the day of the landing correspond to the 
twenty-first, N. S. If therefore it be desirable to celebrate 
the precise portion of time corresponding with their date, as it 
undoubtedly is, the twenty-first and not the twenty-second of 
December, should be commemorated as Forefather's Day. * 

^ The day of the landing by the exploring party in the shallop 
was Monday, December 11th, 1620, old style. This is establish d 
by the united testimony of Morton's Memorial, Mourt's Relation, 
and Governor Bradford's MS. History, as copied by Prince. In de- 
termining the anniversary of that day for any year whatever, the 
question occurs, what is the difference between O. S. and N. S. for 
1620 ? 

By order of Pope Gregory XIII. in 1582, ten days were omitted 
in the Julian calendar, then in use, and the 5th of October was 
reckoned the 15th. This was done fo.r the following reason. The 
Julian calendar proceeded on the supposition that the year was 365 
days and 6 hours ; but the time in which the sun performs his annual 
revolution is not exactly 365 days 6 hours, but 365 days 5 hours 48 
minutes and 45| seconds. The civil year, therefore, exceeded the 
solar by 11 minutes 14^ seconds, which in about 130 years amounted 
to a whole day, i. e. the true equinox would precede the civil one by 
about a day in 130 years. In the year 1582, this anticipation of the 
equinox had amounted to 10 days, so that the vernal equinox was 
now found to happen on the 11th of March instead of the 21st, as it 
ought 10 have done if the Julian calendar had agreed with the course 
of the sun. The Pope, therefore, ordered the 10 days to be sup- 
pressed ; and, to preserve the accuracy of the calendar from that 
time, it was ordered that three days should continue to be dropped 
every 400 years, which was nearly equivalent to one day every 130 
years. Instead, however, of suppressing a day every 130th year, 
whether common or leap year, it was thought preferable to make the 
correction in leap year only, thus leaving always 365 days at least 
in the year. Now in the former method of reckoning, every lOOtii 
year was a leap year; but it was ordered by the Pope, that every 
400th year only should be considered as leap year, and the other 
centurial years reckoned as common years ; the year 1600, however, 
being still continued as leap year. By making, therefore, the year 
1700, 1800, and 1900 to be common years instead of leap years, as 
they would have been in the old style, the error arising from the 
odd time would be properly corrected. 

The difference then between O. S. and N. S. in 1582, was ten 
days, and this continued to be the difference until 1700, the leap 
year being preserved in 1600; from 1700 to 1800, it was eleven 
3 



26 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 

Immediately on receiving the happy intelligence, the Mayflower 
weighed anchor and proceeded to the newly-discovered harbor. 
She there moored in safety on the 16th day of December O. S., 
and thus terminated her perilous voyage. As the ark once 
bore the family of Noah and the destinies of human kind, so 
this modern ark bore the pilgrim family and the destinies of a 
future nation. This little family was now about to change the 
perils of the ocean, not for a friendly, hospitable shore, — not to 
receive the fond embrace of affectionate relatives and friends, 
but to encounter the storms of winter in an unexplored wilder- 
ness, and to listen to the yells of savages. An appalling pros- 
pect presents itself to the shivering crowd, as they stand upon 
deck, viewing the scenes of their future exertions and suffer- 
ings. But, instead of shrinking, the strong man nerves his 
arm for the new duties which he is called to perform, as the 
protector of tender females amidst the storms and cold of winter. 

days, because 1700 in O. S. was a leap year, and therefore, another 
day was to be suppressed ; from 1800 to 1900, twelve days ; from 
1900 to 2000, thirteen days; and from 2000 to 2100, still thirteen 
days ; because 2000 is a leap year in both styles. Of course, then, 
the 11th of December, 1620, O. S. corresponds to the 21st of De- 
cember, N. S. — the year 1600 being reckoned as a leap year, and, 
therefore, no day being dropped in that century. Now in the year 
1769, when the Old Colony Chib fixed upon the day of their cele- 
bration, the difference of styles had become, for that century, 11 
days, because the year 1700 was, as above stated, reckoned as a 
common year, and therefore an additional day was dropped, f^or 
the same reason, the difference of styles for the present century is 
12 days. But the true question is and should have been by the Old 
Colony Club, what is the difference of styles for 1620, and that is 
the true difference for that time, and continues so forever. — See 
Rees^ Cijclopedia, articles Calendar and Style. — Judge Davis^s letter 
ni regard to the settlement of Boston. — Judge Davis's communication 
in O. C. Memorial, Sept. 4, 1830. American Almanac, Vol. i. (in 
which however, there is an inaccuracy in stating this mttaer.) 

The above calculation is corroborated in the following manner: 
By finding the Dominical letter for 1620, O. S. which is A, it 
appears that the 11th of December that year fell on Monday, con- 
formably to our historians. By finding the Dominical letter for 1620, 
N. S. which is D, it appears that the 21st of December for that year 
would fall also on Monday, and the 22d on Tuesday, &c. — See the 
table in American Almanac, Vol. iii. p. 72. 

There can be no doubt, therefore, that the 21st of December, in 
any year, is the day corresponding to the 11th of December, 1620, 
O. S. and is the true day of the landing of the Pilgrims at Ply- 
mouth. 



1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 27 

Mothers tasked to the utmost efforts of their physical and moral 
powers, shielding their helpless children from numerous fearful 
objects, exhibit examples of unprecedented self-denial, entire 
devotedness, and high-minded virtue ! And it was the consO' 
lation of all, amid their sufferings, that they had disenthralled 
themselves from ecclesiastical tyranny and persecution, and 
found an asylum of religious liberty and icivil freedom for them- 
selves and posterity.* 

On the 1 8th and 19th, the master of the ship, Mr. Jones, and 
three or four sailors explored the land contiguous to the harbor, 
but could discover neither houses nor inhabitants. On the 
morning of the 20th, after imploring heaven for guidance, a 
considerable number landed with the view of selecting a loca- 
tion for settlement. The place selected was the high ground 
on the bank facing the bay, where the land had been cleared, 
and corn planted by the natives a few years before. Here were 
numerous springs of the purest water, and a brook emptying 
its current into the harbor. Here also was a high hill, well 
situated for a fortification to command the surrounding country, 
and affording a fine prospect across the bay. A violent storm 
arose at night, and the weather continued so tempestuous for 
two or three days, that these people, unable to return on board, 
remained on shore without shelter. On Saturday, the twenty- 
third, another party bid adieu to the Mayflower, went on shore 
and began to fell and carry timber, and make preparations for 
the construction of their house of common rendezvous. On 
the twenty-fourth, (Sabbath) the people on shore were alarmed 
by the cry of Indians, from whom an attack was expected, but 
it proved a false alarm. On Monday, the twenty-fifth, they 
began their common house, for rendezvous and for stores, 
which was twenty feet square; and. no man was suffered to 
remain idle, although many of them, from a long voyage, were 
affected with scurvy, and others, from uncommon exposure to 
storms of snow and rain, were suffering under severe indispo- 
sition. Such was their industry, that in four days one half of 
their store-house was thatched. | It was one of their first ob- 

* Had the month of December, 1620, been as inclement as De* 
cember, 1831 and 1834. when our harbor and shores were an ex- 
panse of ice and snow, and the thermometer several degrees below- 
zero, those whom we honor as our fathers and mothers must have 
fallen a sacrifice to the climate, and the story of the great enterprize 
of these bold spirits been lost in oblivion, or preserved only in un- 
certain tradition. 

fin the year 1801, in digging a cellar, sundry tools and a plate 



28 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 

jects to provide for their security a platform for their ordnance, 
which they began to build on the twenty-eighth, on a high hill. 
On the same day they divided their whole company into nine- 
teen families, that fewer houses might suffice, and measured 
out the ground, assigning to every person by lot half a pole in 
breadth and three poles in length, for house lot and garden. — 
It was stipulated that every man should build his own house, 
but that the whole should be built in two rows and compact for 
greater security against the Indians. The inclemency of the 
weather and their own feeble health were essential impediments 
to their progress in erecting their houses, and many families 
were detained on board the ship until shelter could be provided 
on shore. 

December 3lst, Lord's Day. Although the greatest part of 
tlie company was -on board the ship almost a mile and a half 
from shore, those who had landed kept the sabbath for the first 
time in their new house. ' Here, therefore, is fixed the era of 
their settlement, which in grateful rem.embrance of the christian 
friends, whom they left in the last town which they visited in 
their native country, they called JYeiv Plymouth.* This was 
the foundation of the first English town built in New England.' 
— Holmes^ s Jinn. 

Place of their location. — The place in which the settlers first 
located themselves for a town, is- the whole extent of our Ley- 
den street and its environs. This street was laid out by them 
when planning the town, and extends from the town square in 
a gradual descent to the shore, and terminates a little distance 
south of the memorable rock. During the first winter, the 
settlers buried their dead on the banks of the shore, since called 
Cole's Hill, near their own dwellings, taking special care by 
leveHing the earth to conceal from the Indians the number and 
frequency of deaths. Dr. Holmes mentions a tradition, that 
the graves at that spot, after the great mortality in the first stage 
of the settlement, were levelled and sown over by the settlersto 
conceal the extent of their loss from the natives. An aged 
gentleman, Hon. Ephraim Spooner, since deceased, who gave 

of iron were discovered, seven feet under the surface of the earth, 
on the spot where tradition places the common house, which is on 
the south side of Leyden street, near the declivity of the hill. 

^ "This name of Plimonth was so called not only for the reasons 
here named, (referring to Smith's map) but also because Plimouth 
in O. E. was the last town they left in their native country ; and for 
that they received many kindnesses from some Christians there." — 
Morton Memor. Davis^s edition y page 56. 



1620] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 



29 



this information to Dr. Holmes, received it from Elder Faunce, 
who died 1745, in the 99th year of his age, and who was well ac- 
quainted with some of the first settlers. Hon. Judge Davis 
relates that he has often had similar information from an aged 
lady, Mrs. White, who died at Plymouth, a few years since, 
and who, in early life, was intimate in the family of Elder 
Faunce. It has always been supposed that the remains of 
Governor Carver were deposited on Cole's Hill, and it is to be 
regretted that no stone was erected to designate the spot. 

On reviewing the place where the puritan fathers first erected 
their rude, comfortless huts, and where Carver and half of his 
associates closed their mortal career during the first winter, 
surely enough enthusiasm will never be wanting to consecrate 
the ground with tears, and proclaim its sacredness to future 
generations. It is the ground, where, unshielded from the 
rigors of a boisterous season, our ancestors were compelled to 
erect bulwarks of defence against the attacks of cruel savages, 
while their hearts were pierced with the keenest anguish, by 
the arrows of death depriving them of rulers, parents, husbands 
and children ! 

The Consecrated Rock. — The identical granite Rock, upon 
which the sea-wearied Pilgrims from the Mayflower first im- 
pressed their footsteps, has never been a subject of doubtful 
designation. The fact of its identity has been transmitted from 
father to son, particularly in the instance of Elder Faunce and 
his father, as would be the richest inheritance, by unquestiona- 
ble tradition. About the year 1741, it was represented to Elder 
Faunce that a wharf was to be erected over the rock, which 
impressed his mind with deep concern, and excited a strong 
desire to take a last farewell of the cherished object. He was 
then ninety-five years old, and resided three miles from the 
place. A chair was procured, and the venerable man conveyed 
to the shore, where a number of the inhabitants were assembled 
to witness the patriarch's benediction. Having pointed out the 
rock directly under the bank of Cole's Hill, which his father 
had assured him was that, which had received the footsteps of 
our fathers on their first arrival, and which should be perpetu- 
ated to posterity, he bedewed it with his tears and bid to it an 
everlasting adieu. These facts were testified to by the late 
venerable Deacon Spooner, who was then a boy and was pres- 
ent on the interesting occasion. Tradition says that Elder 
Faunce was in the habit on every anniversary, of placing his 
children and grand-children on the rock, and conversing with 
them respecting their forefathers. Standing on this rock, 
therefore, we may fanc)^a magic power ushering us into the 
presence of our' fathers. Where is the New Englander who 
3* 



30 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1620 

would be willing to have that rock buried out of sight and for- 
gotten ? The hallowed associations which cluster around that 
precious memorial, inspire us with sentiments of the love of our 
country, and a sacred reverence for its primitive institutions. 
In contemplation, we may hold communion with celestial spir- 
its, and receive monitions from those who are at rest in their 
graves. What honors shall we pay to the fathers of our coun- 
try, the founders of that nation, which for ages, will remain 
the rich abode of knowledge, religion, freedom, and virtue ! — 
Criminal, indeed, would be our case, were we not to cherish a 
religious sense of the exalted privileges inherited from our 
pious ancestors, and resolve to transmit them unimpaired to 
our children. 

' The man that is not mov'd with what he reads, 
That takes not fire at their heroic deeds, 
Unworthy of the blessings of the brave, 
Is base in kind, and born to be a slave.' 

Historical records are entirely silent as respects the person 
who was the first to land upon our shore and gain possession of 
New England ground. The claim has been contested between 
the descendants of John Alden and Mary Chilton, but the 
point of precedence must remain undecided, since the closest 
investigation discloses no authority nor a shadow of evidence 
in favor of any individual as being the first who landed. The 
fact is unquestionable, that the shallop of the Mayflower, after 
having tarried three nights at Clark's Island, came up on the 
11th of December, O. S. and landed her men on the main 
shore, but no name is mentioned as the first who landed. The 
name of John Alden is not included in the list of those who 
wsre on board of the shallop; his claim, therefore, must be 
rejected; nor was Mary Chilton on board the shallop. But the 
foilowing traditionary anecdote has ever been regarded as cor- 
rect among the Chilton descendants. The Mayflower having 
arrived in the harbor from Cape Cod, Mary Chilton entered 
the first landing boat, and looking forward, exclaimed, " I will 
be the first to step on that Rock." Accordingly, when the 
boat approached, Mary Chilton was permitted to be the first 
from that boat who appeared on the Rock, and thus her claim 
was established. Among those who came in the Mayflower, 
were James Chilton, and Mary, his only child. Mary married 
John Winslow, and Susannah, her daughter, Mr. Latham. — 
The descendants of Mr. Winslow reside in Boston, and those 
of Mr. Latham in Bridgewater; and the tradition, we have 
reason to believe, is in both famihes. From the Latham family 
have descended the Hay wards; the fete Hon. Beza Hay ward, 



1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 31 

Nathan Hay ward, Esq., (the present Sheriff of the county,) 
and the wife of the author, are lineal descendants. 

In the year 1774, when liberty and the rights of man were 
the popular themes, it was determined to remove the hallowed 
rock from its original bed to the town square, near the church 
and court house, that it might be located beside the liberty 
pole. [This will be further noticed in this work under the date 
of 1774.] 

January 1st, 1621. — About this date Francis Billington hav- 
ing mounted the top of a tree on a high hill, discovered at a 
distance, as he supposed, another great sea, and on the eighth 
January went with one of the master's mates to take a view of 
of the place. They found the water divided into two lakes, the 
larger five or six miles compass, the smaller, three miles. 

January I2th. — Two of the settlers, John Goodman and Peter 
Brown, being abroad gathering thatch, came to a lake of water, 
(probably Murdock's pond) near which they discovered a fine 
large deer; their two dogs chased the animal, and they follow- 
ed till they were lost, and could not find their way back. They 
wandered till night, being hghtly clad, and without weapons or 
food, amidst frost and snow; and were obliged to make the 
cold earth their bed, and the clouds their covering. In the 
night they were greatly alarmed by noises which they supposed 
to be the roaring of lions. In their fright they mounted a tree 
for safety, which they found to be an intolerably cold lodging, 
and they sometimes walked under the tree in readiness to chmb, 
holding their bitch by the neck lest she should rush into the 
lions' paws. But fortunately the lions came not, and at an 
early dawn they renewed their wanderings, which they contin- 
ued through the day. At night they reached the settlement 
almost famished with cold and hunger, having mistaken the 
howling of wolves for the roaring of lions. 

Their friends at the settlement, being greatly alarmed on 
account of their absence, sent out ten or twelve armed men, 
who traversed the woods all day in vain, and returned with 
strong apprehensions that they were taken by the Indians. It 
was not long after the arrival of the planters, that the natives 
assembled all their pawaws in a dark swamp, to curse the new 
comers; for three days they continued their horrid incantation, 
and consigned the English to utter destruction. It is to be 
regretted that we cannot ascertain the spot where this swamp 
was located, nor the particular tribe that acted in this diabolical 
business. 

January 14th. — The settlers had the misfortune of losing their 
common house by fire, from a spark, which falling among the 
dry thatch, entirely consumed it. It was remarkable, that, at 



32 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 

the moment of this disaster. Governor Carver, and Mr. William 
Bradford were sick in their beds. The floor of the house was 
covered with beds and bedding, muskets were loaded, and a 
quantity of powder was stored within, yet little damage was 
sustained. The people on board the ship, seeing the fire, and 
unable to come on shore by reason of low tide and very tem- 
pestuous weather, were under painful apprehensions that the 
savages had attacked them. It being Sunday, and the major 
part of the people on shore, they performed public worship in 
their settlement. 

January I9th. — John Goodman, who had been lost in the 
woods, took it into his head again to ramble into the woods ; 
having a spaniel with him, it was soon attacked by two wolves. 
The dog flew to the legs of his master for safety, and he having 
no weapon, snatched a stick for defence; the wolves sat some 
time on their tails grinning and snarling at the affrighted man, 
but at length suffered him to escape. 

The wife of Capt. Standish, and some others of their num- 
ber, died this month. ■ 

February. — Twelve Indians were discovered in the woods, 
but no interview could be had with them. A general meeting 
was called to establish some military arrangements, and Miles 
Standish was chosen Captain, and vested with command ac- 
cordingly. During the meeting, two Indians presented them- 
selves on the top of the hill, on the opposite side of tke brook, 
and made signs for the EngUsh to come to them, but, on the 
approach of Capt. Standish and Mr. Hopkins, th,ey fled. 

2lst. — Capt. Jones, of the Mayflower, brought on shore one 
of the greatest pieces of cannon, called a mhiioii, and he and his 
sailors assisted the settlers to drag that, and another piece, up 
the hill, with three small pieces, which they mounted for defence. 

The settlers suffered extremely this month by sickness and 
death: no less than seventeen* of their number died during the 
month; and the sick were destitute of almost all the comforts 
which their miserable condition rendered indispensable. Their 
sufferings were increased by the want of well persons to per- 
form the duties among the sick, there being, at one time, not 
more than six or seven in tolerable health. But it is recorded, 
that Standish and Brewster manifested the tenderest concern, 
and devoted themselves, with unwearied assiduity, to the relief 
and comfort of their suffering brethren, not declining the mean- 
est office. In March, 1621, fifty-five only survived of the one 
hundred and one who came in the Mayflower. 

* Of this number was Mary, wife of Isaac Allerton, who died 



1621J HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 33 

March 3d, — The weather was fair and warm, and the plant- 
ers were delighted to hear the singing of American birds in the 
woods. 

IGth.- — ^Much surprise was excited by the appearance of an 
Indian who boldly walked to the rendezvous, and cried out 
cheeringly in broken English — 'Welcome Englishmen, welcome 
Englishmen.' This was Samoset, a Sagamore, who had come 
from Monhiggon, (District of Maine,) where he had learned 
something of the English tongue from the Captains of the 
fishing vessels, on that shore, and he knew by name most of 
those commanders. This was the first savage with whom the 
whites had obtained an interview. No incident could have 
diffused greater joy in the hearts of the disconsolate and the 
infirm; it seemed like an angelic herald to the sick and dying. 
Samoset discoursed as though he possessed a general knowl- 
edge of the whole surrounding country, and the numbers and 
strength of the several tribes. He said that the place they now 
occupy is called Patuxet, and that about four years ago all the 
natives died of an extraordinary plague; that there was neither 
man, woman, nor child remaining in the territory, of which the 
English had now possessed themselves. He was a tall, erect 
man, and had a bow and two arrows. The English treated 
him with their best food and drink; and as he wasinchnedto 
tarry all night, they provided him a lodging and watched his 
movements. The next day he returned to a neighboring tribe, 
from whence he said he came last. He represented the Nausets 
as being highly incensed and provoked against the English, 
three of whom were, about eight months ago, slain by the 
Nausets, Their enmity was caused by one Hunt^ a master of 
a ship, who, a few years ago, deceived the natives, and under 
pretence of trading with them, got twenty of the people of this 
very place, Patuxet, and seven from the Nausets, on board his 
ship, and carried them off* and sold them for slaves, at twenty 
pounds a head.* 

* Thomas Hunt commanded one of the ships, with which Capt. 
Smith came to New England, in 1614. Smith sailed for England in 
July, and left Hunt with directions to procure a cargo, and pro- 
ceed to Spain. His atrocious conduct is thus related by Prince, 
from Smith, Mourt, &c. " After Smith left New England, Hunt 
gets 20 Indiana on board him at Patuxet, one of whom is called 
Squcmto or Squantum or Tisquantum, and 7 more ofNauset, and 
carried them to Malaga, sells them for slaves at £20 a man, which 
raises such an enmity in the savages against our nation, as makes 
further attempts of commerce with them very dangerous." " Smith, 
humane and generous as he was intrepid, indignantly reprobates the 
base conduct of Hunt." Many of these helpless captives, it appears, 



34 HISTORY OF PLY3I0UTH. [1621 

On his departure, the English gave him a knife, a bracelet, 
and a ring; and he promised to return soon and bring other 
natives with him, with such beaver skins as they could collect. 
Not many days after, being Sunday, Samoset returned with five 
tall savages, dressed in deer skins, their hair cut short before, 
but long to their shoulders behind, and ornamented with feath- 
ers and fox-tails, and the principal had a wild-cat's skin on one 
arm. Their faces were painted in various colors and figures. 
They left their bows and arrows at some distance from the 
settlement, according to the charge given by the English to 
Samoset. They made signs of amity and friendship, and 
amused the English with their dancing and singing, who in 
return gave them a suitable entertainment. They brought with 
them some corn, parched, and reduced to a fine powder, called 
JYokehike or JVocake which they eat mixed with water; and 
they had a little tobacco in a bag, of which they drank* 
frequently. They brought with them, also, all the tools be- 
longing to the English, which had been taken when left in the 
woods. They offered a {qw skins to trade, but, being Sunday, 
the English dismissed them soon, desiring them to return with 
more skins, which they promised. But Samoset either was 
sick, or feigned himself so, and would tarry till the next 
Wednesday, when the English gave him a hat, a pair of 
stockings and shoes, shirt, &c. and sent him to inquire why his 
friends did not return. 

Thursdaxj, April 2d. — Samoset arrived, bringing with him 
Squanto, ahas Tisquantum, the only surviving native of 
Patuxet, who was one of the twenty captives carried away by 
the infamous Hunt; he had been in England, and could speak 
a little English. Three others came with him, and brought a few 
skins to "truck," and some red herrings, newly taken and dried, 
but not salted. They gave information, that their great Saga- 
more, Massasoit, was approaching, with Quadequina, his broth- 
er, and all their tribe, and, within an hour, the king appeared 

were rescued from slavery by the benevolent interposition of some 
of the Monks in Malaga. Squanto was probably one, who was thus 
relieved and liberated. He found a friend in Mr. Slaney in England, 
by whose assistance he was enabled to return to his native land, on 
board of Captain Thomas Dermer's vessel in 1619. 

* The term drinking tobacco is frequently used in the records. 
In the year 1646, we find this entry in the Plymouth records. 
"Anthony Thacher and George Pole were chosen a committee tt5 
draw up an order concerninfj disorderly drinking tobacco." It 
undoubtedly means smoking tobacco. An. aged man in this town 
who was a great smoker used to term it drinking tobacco. 



1621] HISTORY OF PLYBIOUTH. 35 

on the top of an opposite hill, and had in his train sixty men, 
which he displayed to view. This Will is on the south side of 
Town brook, and is called Watson's hill, but the brook, which 
they forded, is now covered with an arched stone bridge. Both 
parties being unwilling to advance, Squanto went over to Mas- 
sasoit, and returned with the message, that he desired peace 
and a trade with the English. The governor then sent Mr. 
Edward Winslow, with a pair of knives and a copper chain 
with a jewel in it, for the king, and for Quadequina, a knife and 
a jewel to hang in his ear, a pot of strong water, a quantity of 
biscuit, and some butter, all of which were well received. Mr. 
Winslow addressed Massasoit in the name of king James, as- 
suring him, that the king saluted him with words of love and 
peace, and did accept of him as his friend and ally ; and that the 
governor desired to see him, and confirm a trade and peace 
with him as his next neighbor. Massasoit was well pleased 
with the speech, and after eating and drinking, gave the 
remains to his people. He looked on Mr. Winslow's sword 
and armor with a desire to buy them, but he refused to gratify him. 
Massasoit now left Mr. Winslow in the custody of Quadequina, 
his brother, and came over the brook with twenty men, leaving 
all their bows and arrows behind them. Captain Standish and 
Mr. Williamson, with six musketeers, met the king at the 
brook, and each party saluted the other, when the king was 
conducted to a house then partly built, where were placed a 
green rug and three or four cushions. Governor Carver now 
appeared with a drum and trumpet, and a few musketeers. 
After salutations, the governor kissed the king's hand, who, in 
return, kissed him, and they seated themselves; but the king 
all the time trembled for fear. The governor called for some 
strong water and drank to him, and he drank a copious draught, 
which made him sweat a long time after. Massasoit and his 
people having partaken of some fresh meat, the following terms 
of peace were mutually agreed to. 

1. That neither he, nor any of his, should injure, or do hurt, 
to any of the English. 

2. If any of his did hurt to any of ours, he should send the 
offender, that we might punish him. 

3. That if any of our tools were taken away, when our 
people were at work, he should cause them to be restored, and 
if ours did harm to any of his, we should do the like to them. 

4. If any did unjustly war against him, we would aid him; if 
any did war against us, he should aid us. 

5. He should send to his neighboring confederates, to certify 



36 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 

them of this, that they might not wrong us, but might be like- 
wise comprised in the conditions of peace. 

6. That when their men came, they should leave their bows 
and arrows behind them, as we should do our pieces when we 
went to them. 

Lastly, that doing thus, king James would esteem him as his 
friend and ally.* The above treaty was pleasing to the Sachem 
and approved by his people. | In his person, the king was a 
lusty, able-bodied man, and in his countenance, grave. His 
attire differed little from that of his people, except a great 
chain of beads of white bone about his neck. ' His face was 
painted with a dull, red-like murry, and oiled, both head and 
face, so that he looked greasily.' He had in his bosom, hang- 
ing in a string, a large, long knife; he marvelled much at the 
trumpet, and made some attempts to sound it. All his followers 
were painted of divers colors, some were clothed with skins, 
and some were naked. Samoset and Squanto tarried all night 
with the English; and the king and his people, with their 
wives and children, spent the night in the adjacent woods. | 
They said that within eight or nine days, they would come ' 
and set corn on the other side of the brook, and dwell there 
all summer. That night the English kept a good watch, but 
no danger occurred, and the next morning several of the 
savages visited the English, with the hope, as supposed, of 
obtaining some food. Some of them said the king wished some 
of the English to come and see him. Captain Standish and 
Isaac Allerton went venturously, and were welcomed, and 
presented with three or four ground-nuts and some tobacco. 
Massasoit, being at war with a potent adversary, the Narra- 
gansets, manifested every disposition to be at peace and friend- 

* 'The New Plymouth associates, by the favor of the Almighty, 
began the colony in NeAv England, at a place called by the natives, 
Apaum, alias Fatuxet ; all the lands being void of inhabitants, we, 
the said John Carver, William Bradford, Edward Winslow, William 
Brewster, Isaac Allerton, and the rest of our associates, entering into 
a league of peace with Massasoit, since called Woosamequin, Prince 
or Sachem of those parts: he, the said Massasoit, freely gave them 
all the lands adjacent to them, and their heirs forever.' ['Preface 
to Plymouth laws, declaring the warrantable grounds and proceed- 
ing of the government of New Plymouth.'] — Holmes^s Annals. 

f This treaty, the work of one day, being honestly intended on 1 
both sides, was kept with fidelity as long as Massasoit lived, but was V 
afterwards (in 1675) broken by Philip, his successor.' — Bdknap's 
Biography, The character of Massasoit will be found in the 
appendix. 



1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 37 

ship with the English, whose fire-arms were a great terror to 
his enemies. 

At a meeting in April on common business, Mr. Carver was 
confirmed in the office of governor for one year. 

The Mayflov/er was detained a considerable time, in conse- 
quence of sickness and deaths among the seamen, more than 
one half of their number having died during the winter, and 
Mr. Jones, the master, was unwilling to commence his return 
voyage until the survivors had recovered their health. He 
sailed on the 5th of April, and arrived in England on the 6th 
of May. Not one of the settlers expressed a desire to return 
to their native country, but all remained true to the pledge to 
their brethren whom they left in Leyden, and made every pos- 
sible exertion to prepare comfortable accommodations for their 
reception. 

The first ofience committed and punished since the arrival of 
the colonists, was by John Billington, who shipped on board 
the Mayflower at London, and was not of the company. He 
was charged with contempt of the captain's lawful commands, 
and of opprobious speeches. He was tried by the whole com- 
pany, and sentenced to have his neck and heels tied together; 
but, on humbling himself and craving pardon, and it being his 
first offence, he was released from his painful situation before 
the time had expired. In the spring of this year, the colonists 
planted 20 acres with Indian corn, being the first planted in 
New England, of which they had a good crop. They were 
iustructed in the manner of planting by Squanto, but were un- 
successful in their first trial with English grain, by reason, as 
is supposed, of the lateness of the season^ and bad quality of 
the seed. 

On the fifth of April this year, Governor Carver was taken 
sick in the field while engaged in planting, and died in a few 
days. His death was extremely afflictive, and he was univer- 
sally lamented. He was one of their wisest counsellors, and 
most indefatigable laborers. His remains were consigned to 
the earth, with all the affectionate solemnity which circumstan- 
ces, at the time, would permit, and with the discharge of all 
their fire-arms. Many able pens have been employed in por- 
traying his character. According to Dr. Belknap, ^ he was a 
man of great prudence, integrity, and firmness of mind. He 
had a good estate in England, which he spent in the migration 
to Holland and America. He was one of the foremost in ac- 
tion, and bore a large share of suffering in the service of the 
colony, who confided in him as its friend and father. Piety, 
humility, and benevolence were eminent traits in his character, 
4 



38 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 

and it is particularly remembered, that in the time of general 
sickness, which befel the colony, and with which he was 
affected, after he had himself recovered, he wag assiduous in 
attending the sick and performing the most humiliating services 
for them, without any distinction of persons or characters.' — 
His affectionate wife, overwhelmed with grief and sorrow, sur- 
vived but six weeks after his death. He sustained the office 
of governor four months and twenty-four days only. His pos- 
terity have been very numerous. ^ One of his grandsons lived 
to the age of one hundred and two years, and about the middle 
of the last century, (1775) that descendant, with his son, 
grandson, and great grandson, were all at the same time at 
work in the same field, whilst an infant of the fifth generation 
was within the house at Marshfield.' — Belknap's Jlmer. Biog. 
At the death of governor Carver, the whole number of deaths 
was as follows : 

December, 6 ; January, 8 ; February, 17 ; March, 13. Of 
this number were 21 of the subscribers to the civil compact, 
and in April governor Carver was added to that number. The 
whole number of survivors at this time was 55. Mr. William 
Bradford, while yet a convalescent from dangerous sickness, 
was chosen governor of Plymouth, as successor to governor 
Carver, and Mr. Isaac Allerton was chosen his assistant. 

On the eighteenth of June, two culprits were arraigned be- 
fore the company for trial. These were, Edward Dotey and 
Edward Leister, servants of Stephen Hopkins, who had fought 
a duel with sword and dagger, in which both were wounded. 
They were sentenced to have their head and feet tied together, 
and to remain in that situation for twenty-four hours, without 
food or drink. Even this slight punishment for an offence so 
criminal was remitted by the governor, after one hour's endur- 
ance, in consequence of their pleadings and promises, and the 
earnest desire of their master. 

A Journey to Pokanoket; forty miles. This place was other- 
wise called Sowams. It was deemed advisable to send a 
friendly deputation to Massasoit, in order to ascertain the exact 
place of his residence, and his strength and disposition, and to 
cultivate and perpetuate a league of p^ce and amity between 
the two parties, and to procure corn for seed. For this pur- 
pose, the governor made choice of Edward Winslow and 
Stephen Hopkins, to be accompanied by Squanto, as guide and 
interpreter. The deputies commenced their journey on the 
second or third day of July, taking a horseman's coat of red 
cotton, laced with slight lace as a present to the chief, and 
reached Namasket, a part of Middleborough, fifteen miles dis- 



I 



1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 39 

tant, in the afternoon. The native inhabitants received them 
with joy, and entertained them^in their best manner, giving them 
a kind of bread, and the roes of shad boiled with musty acorns. 
The natives complained greatly of the damage they sustained in 
their corn by the ravages of the crows, and desired to see the 
experiment of shooting them with English guns 5 about four- 
score of these birds were soon brought down, to the great 
amusement of the natives. The gentlemen proceeded on their 
journey eight miles further, and at sun-set, reached a fishing 
wear at Titicut, on Taunton river, where abundance of bass 
was caught. The natives received them in a friendly manner, 
and supplied them with fish, but destitute of houses, they took 
lodgings in the open field. An interchange of friendly civili- 
ties took place. The land on this river appeared rich and fertile, 
but the native inhabitants had a few years before been swept 
oflT by pestilence. Massasoit had his residence on this river. 
The next day they resumed their march, accompanied by six 
volunteer savages, and, having travelled six miles by the river 
side, they come to a fording place at low water. Here they 
were struck with the valor and courage of two savages on the 
opposite side of the river, two only remaining alive at that 
place, both aged — one above three score. Seeing a company 
of men entering the river, they ran to meet them at the bank, 
where, with shrill voices and manly courage, they charged 
with their bows, and demanded if they were enemies, and pre- 
pared to take advantage while in the water. But finding them 
friends they welcomed them with such food as they had, and the 
English bestowed on them a small bracelet of beads. The six 
savages proved useful companions to the ambassadors during 
their tedious march, aflx)rding them much assistance in crossing 
rivers, and offering to carry their clothes and guns to relieve 
them from fatigue and heat. The country through which they 
passed abounded in good timber, consisting of oak, walnut, fir, 
beech and chesnut, of immense size; also fine springs of water, 
but was without inhabitants. Having arrived at a village in 
Massasoit's territory, they were treated with a meal of fish and 
oysters, whence they proceeded to Pokanoket; but the chief 
was absent. One of the English attempted to charge his gun. 
The women and children fled, and could not be pacified, till ho 
laid it aside, and the interpreter assured them of their safety. 
But on the arrival of Massasoit, they saluted him by a full dis- 
charge of muskets, and he received them with every mark of 
favor and respect; and having clothed him with the laced red 
coat, and put the chain about his neck, he" was delighted with 
the figure he made, and his people viewed their king with 



40 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 

pride and wonder. In reply to their message, the chief assured 
them that it was his desire to continue in peace and friendship, 
and that he would direct his people to that effect, and would 
send seed-corn to Patuxet, as desired. He then addressed his 
own people as follows : — ' Am not I Massasoit, commander of 
the country around you.^ Is not such a town mine, and the 
people of it.? Will you not bring your skins to the English?' 
After this manner he named at least thirty places, to every one 
of which they gave an answer of assent and applause. At the 
close of his speech, he lighted tobacco for the envoys, and 
proceeded to discourse about England and the English king, 
wondering that he would live without a wife. He talked also 
of the Frenchmen, bidding the English not to suffer them to 
come to NarragansGt, for it was king James's country, and he 
was king James's man. Night approaching, and Massasoit 
having provided no food, as he had been alDsent from home, 
the gentlemen desired to retire to rest. The lodging place 
was on a platform of plank raised a foot from the ground ; and 
their companions were Massasoit and wife and two other In- 
dians, and they were more weary of their lodging than of their 
journey. The next day many of the petty sachems and a large 
party of the people assembled to amuse themselves and the 
strangers with their games for skins and knives, and one of the 
English fired at a mark, and they were much surprised to see 
so many shot holes. At noon, Massasoit brought home two 
fishes, which he had caught, and these formed the repast for 
forty people, and the only meal afforded to the messengers for 
two nights and a day; yet he importuned them to tarry longer. 
But feeling the want of food, and anxious to keep the ensuing 
sabbath at home, and moreover despairing of sleep, as the fil- 
thy lodgings, the noise of the savages singing themselves to 
sleep, the annoyance of the pestiferous insects within doors, 
and musquitoes without, left no chance for repose; and think- 
ing that should they protract their visit, they might not be able 
to return for want of strength, on Friday morning, before the 
sun's rising, they took leave and departed, leaving the chief 
both grieved and ashamed that he could entertain them no bet- 
ter, Squanto was retained to collect articles for traffic and 
Tockamahamon appointed to guide them to Plymouth, where 
they arrived after two days' journey. 

John Billington, a boy, having been lost in the woods, and 
inquiry being made, Massasoit sent word that he was at Nau- 
set. He had wandered about five days, subsisting on berries. 
The governor sent ten men in a shallop, with Squanto and 
Tockamahamon, to recover him. In July, the party sailed to- 



1621] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 41 

wards Nauset, but were overtaken by a violent storm, attended 
with lightning and thunder; they took shelter that night in the 
bay, near the harbor of Commaquid. (Barnstable harbor.) — 
The next morning, some savages, in pursuit of lobsters, in- 
formed them that the boy was well, but was at Nauset. They 
invited the English on shore to eat with them; four savages 
entered the boat as hostages, while six went on shore from the 
boat. The English were introduced to their sachem, or gov- 
ernor, named lyanough, a man not exceeding 25 years of age, 
of comely appearance and courteous, who afforded them a 
plentiful entertainment. Here they were accosted by an old 
woman, supposed to be not less than a hundred years old, who 
had never seen an Englishman; she was weeping with great 
lamentation, complaining that she had three sons who went on 
board Captain Hunt's ship to trade with him, and were carried 
captives into Spain, by which means she was deprived of the 
comfort of her children in her old age. The English told her 
they were sorry, that Hunt was a bad man, and all the English 
condemned him, and that no such injury should be offered by 
themselves; and, having given her a few trifles, she was some- 
what pacified. After dinner, they proceeded, accompanied by 
the sachem, lyanough, and two of his men, to Nauset, and 
Squanto was sent to Aspinet, the sachem of Nauset, to inform 
him of their arrival. After sunset, Aspinet came with the boy, 
and a great train, consisting of not less than one hundred, one 
half of whom went to the shallop unarmed, carrying the boy in 
their arms through the water, while the rest remained at a 
distance, with their bows and arrows. The boy was now de- 
livered, decorated to excess with beads ; and, having agreed 
to a peace, and presented the sachem and the man who brought 
the boy with knives, the parties separated. On their return, 
lyanough landed at Commaquid, and, to show his kindness, 
took a runlet and led the seamen in the dark some distance for 
water. In the mean time, most of his people, men, women, 
and children, assembled; the women joined hand in hand, 
singing and dancing, and the scene was closed by lyanough 
taking a bracelet from his neck and hanging it on one of the 
English. It was reported by the Nausets, that the Narragan- 
sets had captured Massasoit, and killed some of his people, and 
about the same time, Hobomak, a Pinese, or chi :;f captain un- 
der Massasoit, a lusty young man, attached himself to the 
English, and devoted his life to their interest and service. On 
the other hand it was understood that Corbitant, another 
sachem, had given indications of his attachment to the Narra- 
gansets, a powerful tribe, and was endeavoring to disaffect the 
4* 



42 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1621 

subjects of Massasoit towards the colonists, and manifested bis 
enmity to all that favored his interest. * Squanto and Hobo- 
mak, anxious to ascertain the situation of their chief, Massasoit, 
undertook a journey privately for that purpose. They were 
discovered by Corbitant the first night, and threatened with 
death. He seized Squanto, and held a knife at his breast, but 
Hobomak effected his escape to Plymouth, with news that 
Squanto was killed. The governor, sensible of the justice and 
importance of protecting the friendly natives, and of showing 
his own authority, after consulting the whole company, resolved 
to despatch a party of armed men, with orders to attack their 
enemies in the night, and in case that Squanto had been killed, 
to put Corbitant'to death, and bring his head to Plymouth. On 
the 14th of August, Captain Standish, at the head of ten of 
the English, and accompanied by the friendly Hobomak, com- 
menced the expedition, and reached Corbitant's cabin in the 
night; three Indians, attempting to escape, were badly wound- 
ed, but it appeared that Squanto had suffered no injury. The 
next morning, Standish breakfasted at Squanto's, and finding 
that Corbitant and his friends had escaped, and having accom- 
plished the object of his expedition, commenced his return 
home. 

The consequence of this display of authority on the part of 
the English was extremely favorable; the natives in that quar- 
ter were greatly intimidated, and numerous sachems, nearly all 
in the vicinity, solicited the friendship of the colonists. It ap- 
peared, on inquiry, that the report of the capture of Massasoit 
"was a mistake, and Corbitant solicited his good offices to 
reconcile him to the English; and he, together with sev^eral 
other chiefs, repaired to Plymouth, to acknowledge themselves 
the loyal subjects of King James, and subscribed the following 
paper : 

September 13th, 1621. 
' Know all men by these presents, that we, whose names are 
underwritten, acknowledge ourselves to be the loyal subjects 
of King James, King of Great Britain, France and Ireland, 



* Corbitant resided at Mattapuyst, a neck of land in the township 
of Swansey. Mr. Winslow, who had freqent conferences with him 
at his wiowam and at other places, represents him as a 'hollow- 
hearted friend to the English, a notable politician, yet full of merry 
jests and squibs, and never better pleased than when the like are 
returned again upon him.' 



I 



1621] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 43 

defender of the faith, &c. In witness whereof, and as a testi- 
monial of the same, we have subscribed our names, or marks, 
as followeth.' Subscribed by nine sachems. The colonists 
had now secured the entire friendship and good services of the 
great sachem, Massasoit, and, partly by his influence, brought 
most of the petty sachems to terms of submission and peace. 
One event had previously occurred, which the natives had in 
remembrance, and which served to restrain their evil propen- 
sities. A French ship had been wrecked on Cape Cod, and 
most of the crew sacrificed. One Frenchman only was per- 
mitted to Hve among the natives. He told them that God was 
angry with them for this wickedness, and would destroy them, 
and give their country to another people. That they should 
not live like beasts, as they did, but should be clothed, &c. — 
But they, in derision, replied, that they were so many that God 
could not kill them. He answered ' that though they were 
never so many, God had many ways to destroy them that they 
knew not.' The pestilence which depopulated their country, 
took place soon after the death of the Frenchman, and the ar- 
rival of the English soon followed. The prediction being ful- 
filled, produced a salutary influence on the natives. 

A tribe called the Massachusetts, had manifested indications 
of hostility against the English. The governor and company, 
therefore, desirous to ascertain their strength, particular situ- 
ation, and circumstances, resolved to send a party to explore 
the bay on which they resided, and propose to them terms of 
peace, trade and friendship. Accordingly, on the eighteenth 
of September, the sliallop was despatched with ten English- 
men, Squanto for their interpreter, and two other Indians. — 
They arrived in the harbor of Shawmut, (Boston,) the next 
day, anchored under a clifi^, which Dr. Belknap supposes to be 
Copps's Hill, at the bottom of the bay, and twenty leagues 
from Plymouth, Here they had an interview with the sachem, 
Obbatinua, one of the parties to the submission signed a few 
days before at Plymouth. He renewed his submission, receiv- 
ing a promise of defence against his enemies, particularly 
against the sachem of Massachusetts. They were treated by 
the natives with hospitality and respect, after their fears had 
subsided, and having collected a quantity of beaver, on the 
20th in the evening, having the benefit of a light moon, set 
sail, and arrived at Plymouth before noon the next day. The 
shallop's crew made such a favorable report respecting the 
country which they had just visited, as to excite the envy of 
the colonists, who regretted that it had not fallen to their lot to 
be seated there, although health was now restored to their 



44 



HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 



[1621 



dwellings, they were gathering in their harvest, provisions 
were plenty, water fowl and fish abounded, deer and wild tur- 
keys were in the forest, they had opened a successful traffic 
with the natives, and their houses were in good condition for 
the approacliing winter. 

On the ninth of November, the Fortune, a vessel of fifty-five 
tons burthen, arrived at Cape Cod, bringing Mr. Robert 
Cushman, and thirty-five more passengers, whose names 
follow : * 

Robert Cushman, 

William Hilton, 

John Winslow, 

William Coner, 

John Adams, 

WiUiam Tench, 

John Cannon, 

William Wright, 

Robert Hickes, 

Thomas Prence, (Prince) after- 
wards Governor, 

Stephen Dean, 

Moses Simonson, (Simmons,) 

Philip De La Noye, (Delano,) 

Edward Bompasse, (Bumpus, 
and Bump,) 

Clement Brigges, (Briggs,) 

It was unfortunate that this ship was so long on the voyage, 
as she had expended nearly all her provisions. She was soon 
laden with a cargo, valued at £500, consisting of furs, clap- 
boards, and sassafras, and being provisioned by the planters, 
(though greatly to their damage) she was despatched on her 
return voyage, on the 13th of December; but near the English 
coast she was captured and carried into France, but afterwards 
released. Mr. Cushman returned in the ship, as the adven- 
turers had directed, to give them information respecting the 
plantation. 

Soon after the departure of the Fortune, the new comers 
were distributed amongst the several families, and, on taking 
an estimate of their provisions, it was found necessary to put 
the whole company on half allowance, to which they cheer- 
fullv submitted. At this critical juncture, the Narragansets, 

* Four more of the first company in the Mayflower had died since 
March, leaving but fifty-one survivors. 



James Steward, (Stewart,) 

William Pitts, 

William Palmer, probably two 

in his family, 
Jonathan Brewster, 
Bennet Morgan, 
Thomas Elavil, and his son, 
Hugh Stacie, (Stacy,) 
William Beale, 
Thomas Cushman, 
Austin Nicolas, (Nicholas,) 
Widow Foord, probably four in 

her family, 
Thomas Morton, 
William Bassite, (Bassett,) two 

probably in his family. • 



1622] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 



45 



learning that the ship brought neither arms nor provisions, be- 
gan to manifest hostile intentions. Their threats and prepara- 
tions were well known to the English. At length they sent 
messengers to the plantation, with a bundle of arrows tied to- 
gether with a snake skin. This the English received as a 
war challenge, and governor Bradford informed the chief sa- 
chem, Cannonicus, that if they loved war they might begin it, 
as he was not unprepared. By an Indian, the governor, after 
consulting the settlers, sent back the snake's skin stuffed with 
gunpowder and bullets, with a verbal message of defiance. 
This produced the desired effect. The sachem was intimidat- 
ed, dared not touch the snake's skin, nor let it remain in his 
house, but returned it to the English unopened. The settlers 
now judged it prudent to enclose their houses by a strong im- 
palement, which was completed in February. They also, for 
further security, enclosed part of the hill, and formed bulwarks 
with gates to be locked at night, and watch and ward was kept 
during the day. The enclosed ground afforded a garden for 
each family. The whole company was divided into four squad- 
rons, and each one had its particular posts assigned it, in case 
of alarm. One of the companies was directed to attend par- 
ticularly to any fires that might happen, while others were to 
serve as guards with their muskets. In all these military ar- 
rangements for the security of the town, Captain Standish was 
their main dependence, and he proved himself well deserving 
their confidence. 

1622. About the beginning of April, another expedition on 
a trading voyage to the Massachusetts was in preparation, 
when Hobomak intimated his fears that the Narragansetts and 
the Massachusetts had formed a private league against the Eng- 
lish for their destruction, and, by sending off a part of their 
force, the town would be exposed to great danger from the 
Narragansetts, ^hile those on the expedition would be destroyed 
by the Massachusetts. These apprehensions, however, did not 
prevent the expjJ|ition. Captain Standish, with ten principals 
men, taking both Squanto and Hobomak, proceeded on 
the voyage. Having reached the mouth of the harbor ne^x 
the Gurnet's nose, they were becalmed, and came to anchor. 
While there, an Indian of Squanto's family came running into 
town with his face covered with blood, calling to the people 
abroad to make haste home, saying he received the wound in 
his face for speaking for the English, and frequently looking 
back as if the assailants were fast behind him. He informed 
the Governor that there were many Narragansetts, together 
with Massasoit and Corbitant and others, approaching to as- 



46 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1622 

sault the town, in the absence of Captain Standish. Upon this, 
information, the governor ordered three pieces of cannon to be 
fired. Standish and his crew, taking the alarm, immediately 
returned, and prepared for action. Hobomak was positive that 
it was all fiction, as it proved. He was a Pinese, he said, and 
such an enterprise would not be undertaken by Massasoit with- 
out consulting him. At the request of the Governor, he sent 
his wife to Massasoit's residence, pretending other business, to 
inform herself of the true state of things. She found all quiet, 
and that no mischief had been intended. She then informed 
Massasoit of what had occurred at Plymouth, who was much 
offended with Squanto for his conduct. After this affair, Stan- 
dish prosecuted his voyage to the Massachusetts, made a good 
trade, and returned Tn safety. It was now seen by the English 
that Squanto \yas not be relied on, that he was actuated by 
selfish views, endeavoring to make his countrymen believe that 
he had great influence with the English, as he understood their 
language; in consequence of which he deluded many, and 
gained some advantages to himself He made the natives be- 
lieve, that the English were their enemies, that they kept the 
plague buried in the ground, and could spread it through the 
country at pleasure, which created great terror among the In- 
dians, and induced them to place much dependence on him, to 
secure for them the friendship of the English. Some barrels 
of gunpowder v/ere buried under ground in the store-house, 
and when taken out, Hobomak inquired of Squanto what they 
were ? He replied, that they contained the plague, which he 
had formerly mentioned. Hobomak inquired of an English- 
man if this was true; he answered, no ! but the God of the 
English possessed it, and could use it for the destruction of his 
enemies, and the enemies of the English. Such were the de- 
vices, and such the dupUcity of Squanto, to increase his influ- 
ence among his brethren; and it was perceived that he had 
succeeded but too well in obtaining for himself rhe respect due 
to Massasoit only. The planters spared no {^uis to counteract 
these proceedings, by assuring the natives trfit Squanto was a 
deceiver, and that they had no reason to fear the English, so 
long as they conducted peaceably towards them, Massasoit, 
at length, became so embittered against Squanto, that, on a 
visit at Plymouth, he demanded of governcH" Bradford, that he 
should be put to death; but this was refused, and aft^ his re- 
turn home, he sent messengers to repeat the deman^ assert- 
ing his claim to Squanto as his subject, according t^he terms 
of the existing treaty. The demand was repeated #^ith suqh 
pressing importunity, that the governor admitted that he de- 



1622] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 47 

served death, and was about to deliver him up, though with 
great reluctance, as Squanto was the only one who understood 
both languages, by which the necessary intercourse could be 
kept up. Massasoit offered many beaver skins in exchange 
for Squanto, but the governor disdained to sell his Hfe, but as- 
sured the messengers that Squanto had justly forfeited it by his 
falsehood and deceit. With the messengers, Massasoit sent 
his own knife for the avowed purpose of cutting off Squanto's 
head and hands, and the culprit readily yielded himself and 
submitted his life, without the least apparent reluctance to the 
will of the governor. At the moment when he was about to be 
delivered into the hands of the messengers, a shallop appeared 
in the offing ; the governor having heard many rumors of the 
French, and, doubtful whether there were not combinations 
between them and the savages, refused to deliver Squanto up, 
until he should first have ascertained what boat was approach- 
ing. Thus Squanto escaped, for the messengers, vexed at the 
delay, immediately departed in great rage. The boat in ques- 
tion proved to be a shallop belonging to a fishing vessel, the 
property of Thomas Weston, a merchant in London, which, 
with about thirty others, was employed in the fishing business, 
on the eastern shore near Penobscot. This was in the month 
of May, when the whole colony was entirely destitute of bread, 
and their other provisions were almost expended. It was out 
of season for sea-fowl, and they were unprovided with seins 
and hooks for fishing. They had subsisted on clams and other 
shell fish, until they were greatly debilitated. The shallop, 
above mentioned, brought six or seven passengers from the 
fishing vessels from London to be added to the planters, but no 
supply of provisions. Governor Bradford despatched Edward 
Winslow, to purchase articles of provision of the fishermen, 
but none could be obtained, excepting from the generosity of 
one Captain, who||upplied them gratuitously with bread, suffi- 
cient to give each-Allison in the plantation a quarter of a pound 
daily until the hafUlP. ' This was the daily portion,' says Mr. 
Winslow, ' which was distributed : until now, we were never 
without some bread, the want whereof much abated the strength 
and flesh of some, and swelled others — and, indeed, had we 
not been in a place where divers sorts of shell fish are, that 
may be taken with the hand, we must have perished, linless 
God had raised some unknown or extraordinary means for our 
preservation.' 

In addition to this calamity, the Indians threatened them, 
and boasted how easily they could effect their destruction, and 
Massasoit, even manifested a coolness and indifference about 



48 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1622 

his English friends. In the mean time, news arrived of a hor- 
rible massacre of the English in Virginia on the 27th of March, 
1622. Three hundred and forty-seven of the English were 
slain by the Indians. ' The massacre was conducted with in- 
discriminate barbarity. No regard was shown to dignity, no 
gratitude for benefits.' Jwstly alarmed for their safety, they 
immediately began to build a strong and handsome fort, taking 
in the top of the hill under which our town is seated, with a 
flat roof and battlement, on which cannons were mounted, and 
a watch kept. The lower part was used as a place of public 
worship. Thus did these pious people offer their devout aspi- 
rations to God with the sword in one hand and the bible in the 
other. ^ About the end of March,' says Mr. Winslow, * our 
store of victuals was wholly spent, having lived long before on 
a bare and short allowance.' As to the insufficient stock of 
provisions brought by the Fortune, he suggests as an apology 
for their friends in England, ^ certain among ourselves were too 
prodigal in writing" and reporting that we enjoyed a plenty.' 

The colony now in June and July, consisted of about one 
hundred persons in tolerable health; who had, this season, 
planted sixty acres of corn, and whose gardens afforded ample 
supplies of vegetables. 

Thomas Weston, a merchant in London, was originally one 
of the merchant adventurers. He encouraged the emigration, 
and actively promoted the Plymouth settlement, until this year. 
Why he now withdrew his patronage, could not be known, 
but by a letter from him, addressed to governor Carver, ' we 
find,' says governor Bradford, ^ he has quite deserted us, and 
is going to settle a plantation of his own. And having pro- 
cured for himself a patent of a tract of land in Massachusetts 
Bay, he sent two ships, the Charity and the Swan, with fifly or 
sixty men, at his own charge, to settle a plantation. These 
adventurers arrived at Plymouth about June or July, many of 
them in a sickly condition; and most of them remained there 
the greater part of the summer, and reclp^d from the inhabi- 
tants every hospitality and kindness which the place could af- 
ford. But they were ungrateful enough to commit numerous 
thefts, and waste the provisions of the planters who furnished 
them. At length they located themselves on Weston's land, 
at a place called Wessagusset, in the Massachusetts Bay, (now 
Weymouth). This was a rival settlement, and consisted of 
profligate miscreants altogether unfit for such an enterprise, 
and proved very troublesome neighbors. 

In the month of August, another ship arrived from England, 
called the Discovery, commanded by Captain Jones, the former 



1622] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 49 

commander of the Mayflower; and also the Sparrow, belong- 
ing to Mr. Weston, which had been employed on a fishing voy- 
age. Captain Jones brought a large supply of trinkets, suita- 
ble for traffic with the natives, but his enormous demand for 
the articles, and unwillingness to sell but in large quantities, 
showed his disposition to take an ungenerous advantage of the 
famishing planters, and compel them to purchase at exorbitant 
prices that they might traffic with the natives for corn. 

Weston's undeserving company soon squandered away their 
provisions, and were reduced to a state of starvation; thieving 
among the natives was their next resort. They were continu- 
ally exasperating the savages against both settlements, till at 
length they became contemptible in the eyes of the natives 
themselves. One of them was so greatly enfeebled for want of 
food, that, in attempting to dig clams, his feet got caught in the 
mud and, before he could be extricated, perished. They 
would debase themselves by the most abject services for the 
natives, who, in return, would rob them of their miserable 
food and blankets while asleep. Pressing and clamorous 
complaints were made by the Indians to the governor, and 
some were stocked and some whipped, without amendment; at 
length, to appease the injured savages, it was thought neces- 
sary to hang one of those who had been convicted of stealing. 
' A waggish report became current that the real offisnder was 
spared, and that a poor decrepid old man, that was unservicea- 
ble to the company, was hung in his stead. ' Upon this story,' 
says Mr. Hubbard, in his MS. History of New England, ' the 
merry gentleman that wrote the poem called Hudibras did, in 
his poetical fancy, make so much sport.' The passage refer- 
red to is well known. 

' Our brethren of New England use 
Choice malefactors to excuse, 
And hang the guiltless in their stead, 
Of whom the churches have less need.' 

HudihraSj part ii. canto 2. 

Mr. Hubbard seriously contradicts the story, but with a 
qualification, that would not, perhaps, have deprived the poet of 
an allusion so convenient for his purpose, and so congenial to 
his feelings. As Mr, Hubbard had the account from the Ply- 
mouth people, the person hanged was really guilty of stealing, 
as were many of the rest; yet it is possible, that justice might 
be executed, not on him that most deserved it, but on him that 
could best be spared, or who was not likely to live long, if he 
had been let alone.' — JVeiv England Memorial. 
5 



50 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 

1623. Partly to benefit Weston's starving people, and partly 
to provide for his own families, governor Bradford agreed to 
accompany them in the Swan, their own ship, on an expedition 
to Cape Cod, to procure corn from the natives. He afterwards 
went a second time, in company with Captain Standish in an- 
other shallop, after the Captain had recovered from sickness. 
These voyages were attended with the greatest hazard, by 
reason of violent storms; but they returned in safety, and 
brought a good supply of corn, which they divided equally be- 
tween the two plantations. At Nauset the shallop was stranded 
in a storm; part of the corn and beans, of which they had 26 
or 28 hogsheads, was stacked and covered with mats and left 
in charge of the Indians. The governor procuring a guide, 
travelled home on foot, receiving much respect from the natives 
by the way, and was weary with galled feet and disappointment. 
In this first voyage the governor took Squanto as an inter- 
preter and pilot, but unfortunately he was seized with a mortal 
fever at Cape Cod, of which he soon died. This loss was se- 
verely felt, as his place could not be supplied. 

Although on a former occasion his conduct was somewhat 
exceptionable, yet, as interpreter and pilot, the English always 
found him faithful and .ready to devote himself to their service. 
' A short time previous to his death, he requested governor 
Bradford to pray that he might go to the Englishman's God in 
heaven; and he bequeathed his little property to his English 
friends, as remembrances of his love.' 

January. Captain Standish made frequent successful ex- 
cursions during the winter, to traffic for corn and furs. While 
his shallop lay in a creek at Nauset, an Indian stole from him 
some beads, scissors, and other trifles. Standish complained 
to the sachem, and threatened him and his people with punish- 
ment, unless they were restored. The next day, the sachem 
with a number of his men appeared to make satisfaction. 
First, by way of salutation, he thrust out his tongue to its full 
length, and drew it across the Captain's wrist and hand to his 
finger ends. Next, he attempted to bow the knee in imitation 
of the English, having been instructed by Squanto. All his 
men followed his example, but in so awkward a manner, that the 
English could scarce refrain from breaking out in open laugh- 
ter. After this ceremony, he delivered back the stolen goods, 
assuring the captain that he had punished the thief He then 
directed the women to make some bread for the company, and 
expressed his sorrow for the theft, and was glad to be recon- 
ciled. 

February. Captain Standish, being on a visit to Mattachiest 



1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 51 

(Barnstable) to purchase corn, the people freely supplied him, 
pretending to regard him with great friendship and respect. 
Several strangers also appeared, wishing only to see him and 
his company, but Standish saw reason to suspect that they 
were planning to kill him. He, therefore, ordered that part of 
his company should remain awake, and watch all night. It was 
not long before some beads were stolen. Standish, having but 
six men with him, ordered that all should leave the boat, and 
surround the house which contained the sachem and his peo- 
ple. He now assured them that as he would not offer the 
least injury to one of them, so he would receive none from any 
person, and demanded the stolen articles. The sachem, having 
directed the thief to go slily and put them into the boat, de- 
sired the Captain to search for them there; he, suspecting 
their knavery, sent a man who found the articles lying in 
plain sight on the boat's cuddy. These people now supplied 
him with corn enough to load his shallop. These spirited mea- 
sures produced an admirable effect upon these faithless people, 
and kept them in constant fear. 

March. On a visit to Manomet,* Captain Standish was 
apprehensive that the natives were plotting his destruction. 
Being some distance from his boat, with only two or three 
men, and the same number at the boat, he entered the house 
of Canancum, the sachem; soon after which, two of the Mas- 
sachusetts Indians entered. The chief one, called Wattawa- 
mat, was a notable, insulting villain, who had formerly imbrued 
his hands in the blood of English and French, and had often 
boasted of his own valor, and derided the weakness of the 
English, especially, as he said, because they died crying, mak- 
ing sour faces, more like children than men. This fellow took 
a dagger from his neck, and presented it to the sachem, ac- 
companied by a long speech, which the Captain could not un- 
derstand, but which was of the following purport. The Mas- 
sachusetts had concluded to destroy Weston's company, but 
dare not attempt it, till they could gather strength enough to 
destroy the Plymouth people also, as they would never leave 
the death of their countrymen unrevenged, and they could not 

* Manometis the name of a creek, or river, which runs through 
the town of Sandwich into the upper part of Buzzard's Bay, for- 
merly called Manomet Bay. Between this and Scusset Creek, is 
the place, which, for more than a century, has been thought of, as 
proper to be cut through, to form a communication by a navigable 
canal from Barnstable Bay to Buzzard's Bay. It is only six miles 
across. 



52 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 

be safe unless both plantations were overthrown. To this end, 
they formerly had solicited this sachem, and also lyanough at 
Mattachiest, and many others, to assist them; and now, since 
there was so fair an opportunity by the Captain's presence, it 
was best they should make sure of him and his company. 
The savages endeavored to persuade Standish to send for the 
remainder of the boat's crew, but he refused. At the same 
time there was a lusty Indian of Paomet (Truro) present, who 
had professed friendship for the English, especially for Stand- 
ish. This savage was in confederacy with the rest, but was 
very artful in keeping up appearances, offering many presents, 
saying he was rich, and could afford to bestow such favors on 
his friends whom he loved. He also offered to carry some of 
his corn to the shallop, a kind of labor which he said he had 
never performed for any man in his life before. And that he 
might have a better opportunity to kill the Captain, he impor- 
tuned him to lodge at his hut, but the weather was so exces- 
sively cold that he was unable to sleep, and kept about the fire. 
The Indian frequently inquired why he did not sleep as usual, 
and urged him to it, but he replied that he had no desire to 
rest. The next day, the Indian embarked with Standish, and 
urged him to accompany him to Paomet, promising to supply 
him with corn, which the Captain complied with, not in the 
least suspecting an evil design; but the boat was forced back 
by a contrary wind, and returned to Plymouth. Thus the sav- 
age in two attempts was providentially frustrated in his diaboli- 
cal intentions. 

March. Visit to Massasoit. Information being received 
that Massasoit was dangerously sick, and that a Dutch ship 
was stranded near his house, the governor sent Edward Win- 
slow and John Hampden, with Hobomak, to visit him and min- 
ister to his comfort, as this act is not only commendable in it- 
self, but is conformable to the prevailing custom among the 
natives in case of sickness. Mr. Hampden was a gentleman 
from London, says Winslow, who was spending the winter at 
Plymouth, and was desirous of seeing the country. Dr. Bel- 
knap supposes this to be the same person who distinguished 
himself by his opposition to the illegal and arbitrary demands 
of King Charles I.* [Biog. vol. ii. p. 229.] Winslow was 

* ' When wandering about the woods of Pakanok, or along" the 
banks of Taunton river, or sleeping- in Indian huts, little did Hamp- 
den dream of the fate which awaited him. Little did he think that 
it was reserved for him to commence the overthrow of the British 
monarchy, and to shed his blood in the first daring attempt for a 



1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 55 

acquainted with the Dutch language, and it was desirable to 
have a conference with them; he was, moreover, a warm 
friend of Massasoit, and h& ^ovided for the occasion some 
comfortable cordials, &c. The first night they lodged with 
their Indian friends at Namasket; the next day, about one 
o'clock, they came to a ferry in Corbitant's country, (Slade's 
ferry in Svvansey) where they met with many Indians, who in- 
formed them that Massasoit was dead, and was that day to be 
buried, and that the Dutch ship would be off before they could 
arrive. This was unwelcome news, and Hobomak wished to 
return immediately to Plymouth. But Winslow, conceiving 
that Corbitant would probably succeed Massasoit, and that the 
distance was only three miles to his dwelling-place, (Matta- 
poiset), prevailed on Hampden and Hobomak to proceed, al- 
though the yisit might be attended with danger, as Corbitant 
was considered to be unfriendly. Hobomak immediately be- 
gan to manifest his great grief, exclaiming often on the way, 
' Neen womasu sagimus, neen womasu sagimus, &c. My lov- 
ing sachem, my loving sachem, many have I known, but never 
any like thee.' And turning to Mr. Winslow, he said, * Whilst 
I live I shall never see his like amongst the lAdians; he was 
no liar, he was not bloody and cruel, like other Indians. In 
anger and passion he was soon reclaimed; easy to be recon- 
ciled towards such as had offended him; ruled by reason, not 
scorning the advice of mean men; governing his men better 
with few strokes than others did with many, truly loving where 
he loved, and he feared that the English had not a faithful 
friend left among the Indians,' &c. In this strain of lamenta- 
tion and sorrow he continued, till they arrived at Corbitant's 
house; but he being gone to visit Massasoit, the squaw sachem 
gave them a kind entertainment, and informed them that the 

free constitution in England.' — Baylies, vol. i. p. 110. 

We are not aware that such a visit by Hampden is mentioned by 
any British writer. We have never met with ' the memorial of 
John Hampden, by Lord Nugent,' but, from the notice of this work 
in the Edinburgh Review, we infer there was no knowledge of the 
fact of such a visit. At this period, (1620) he had not risen to dis- 
tinction, but he was the father of a family, and a member of Parlia- 
ment, and a total silence as to such a voyage, especially in epistolary 
correspondence, is a little diiRcult to be accounted for. It is a 
known fact, however, that Hampden had a partiality for the puritans, 
and was a warm friend to the New England Colonies, and it is cer- 
tain also, that, at a subsequent period, he, with his relative, Oliver 
Cromwell, was actually on ship board, bound to New England, and 
was stopped by order of the royal government. 
5* 



54 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 

death of Massasoit was not certainly known, but supposed. 
Winslow hired an Indian to go with all expedition to Pokano- 
ket and ascertain the fact, and inform Corbitant that they were 
at his house. News was soon brought that the king was not 
dead, though there was no hope that they would find him liv- 
ing. On their arrival, they found that the Dutch ship had 
sailed, and that Massasoit still breathed. His hut was filled 
and surrounded with people. The pawaws were in the diligent 
exercise of their incantations and charms for him. making a 
'hellish noise,' terrifying both sick and well, and six or eight 
women were chafing his limbs. Massasoit was apparently ex- 
piring, his sight had wholly left him, but being told that his 
English friends had come to see him, he inquired who had 
come, and on being told Winslow, he desired to speak to him; 
on his approach he put forth his hand and said twice, though 
very feebly, keen Winsnoio ? Art thou Winslow ? Yes. Then 
he doubled these words, matre neen ivonekanet naimen Winsnoiv.' 
' O Winslow, I shall never see you again.' Winslow then de- 
sired Hobomak to tell him, that the governor was grieved to 
learn that he was sick, and being unable to come himself, had 
sent him with some comfortable things for his relief, and gave 
him some conserve on the point of a knife. With much difficul- 
ty he got this through his teeth, and Massasoit swallowed a little, 
which he had not done for the last two days. Winslow next 
endeavored to cleanse his mouth, which was excessively loaded 
with filth, and his tongue so much swollen as fo impede his 
swallowing. He continued his kind attention to his patient, 
repeating his applications till all appearances were favorable, 
and he, within an hour, obtained some sleep. 

Mr. Winslow now proposed to send a messenger to Plymouth 
for a further supply of such articles as he required; with which 
the chief was delighted, and soon despatched a messenger. 
In the mean time, Winslow made him some broth of corn meal, 
boiled with sassafras root and strawberry leaves, which he 
relished. He requested Winslow the next day to take his piece 
and kill him some fowl and make him some broth. The sachem 
derived great benefit from the kindness of Mr. Winslow, of 
which he and all his people w^ere truly sensible, and for which 
they expressed their sincere gratitude. He exclaimed, now I 
see the English are my friends, and love me, and whilst I live 
I will never forget this kindness they have shown me. He 
earnestly desired that Winslow would visit the sick people in 
the town, and wash their mouths also, and give to each of them 
some of the same good things which he had given him. 
Winslow and Hampden, on taking their departure, received 



1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 55 

the blessings of the king and his people. When about to de- 
part, Massasoit privately informed Hobomak, that there was an 
extensive combination of Indians for the destruction of Wes- 
ton's colony; that the Massachusetts had drawn a great num- 
ber of sachems into the confederacy; and that during his sick- 
ness he had been earnestly solicited to join them, but had re- 
fused, and forbidden his people to be influenced by them. He 
advised that the Massachusetts should be immediately attacked 
and cut off", as the only way to avert the threatened danger. 
If the English regard their own safety, let them strike the 
first blow, for after the settlers at Wessagusset should be killed, it 
would be too late for the Plymouth people to withstand so many 
enemies. Corbitant earnestly desired that Winslow and 
Hampden would lodge one night with him at Mattapoiset, on 
their way to Plymouth. They complied with this request, and 
were much entertained with his merry humor and jocose con- 
versation. He asked whether if he were sick and should send 
word to Plymouth, the governor would send him physic, and 
whether Mr. Winslow would visit him; and being answered in 
the afiirmative, he returned his thanks. He inquired of Wins- 
low, how he and Hampden dared to come, being but two men, 
so far into the country .> Winslow replied, that his heart was 
so upright towards them that he had no fear in coming amongst 
them. But, said Corbitant, if your heart be so pure, and pro- 
duces such fruits, why, when we come to Plymouth, are the 
mouths of your pieces presented towards us? This* said Wins- 
low, is an honor which it is our custom to bestow on our best 
friends. But, shaking his head, he answered, that he liked not 
such salutations. He next inquired into the reason of asking 
grace and returning thanks, before and after eating. Wins- 
low answered that all the good things of this life, came from 
God, and it is proper that we should crave his blessing and 
express our thankfulness on all such occasions; to which he 
assented. The gentlemen left Corbitant's dwelling much 
gratified with their entertainment. 

March '23d. — This being their annual court day, the gover- 
nor laid before the whole company the evidence which he had 
obtained of the hostile combination of the several tribes of In- 
dians against the settlement at Wessagusset. It was resolved, 
that Captain Standish should take with him as many men as he 
should deem necessary to encounter all the Indians in Massa- 
chusetts bay — that he should disclose his designs to Weston's 
people, and secure Wattawamat, a bold and bloody warrior, 
and bring home his head. 

Captain Standish would take but eight men for this service, 



56 HISTORY 0^ PLYMOUTH. [1623 

besides Hobomak, lest he should excite suspicion. On his ar- 
rival, his designs were suspected. An Indian said he saw by 
his eyes that he was angry in his heart, and, therefore, believed 
that their plot was discovered. Pecksuot, a bold-spirited In- 
dian, and a Pinese, that is, counsellor and warrior, said to Ho- 
bomak, that he understood that the Captain had come to kill 
him and the rest of the tribe. Tell him, said he, we know it, 
but fear him not; let him begin when he dares; he will not take 
us unawares. Many of them would often whet and sharpen 
their knives, and use insulting speeclies and gestures before 
his face. They were in the habit of wearing knives suspended 
at the breast, in sheaths tied about the neck. Wattawamat 
bragged of the excellency of his knife, having on the handle a' 
woman's face; but he said he had another at home, with which 
he had killed both French and English, having a man's face 
on it, and these two must marry, and by and by it shall see and 
it shall eat, but not speak. Pecksuot, being a large man, 
said, that though Standish was a great Captain, he was but a 
little man; but he himself, though no sachem, was yet a man 
of great strength and courage. Standish, though high-spirited 
and irritable, submitted patiently to these abusive provocations, 
till a favorable opportunity should occur. The next day the 
valiant Captain found means to get Pecksuot, Wattawamat, 
and a third Indian, with Wattawamat's brother, eighteen years 
old, an insulting villain, into a room, and having about an 
equal number of his own men he made the door fast and gave 
the signal, beginning himself with Pecksuot; he snatched his 
own knife from his neck, a struggle for life ensued, the knife 
was two-edged and the savage had sharpened it to a needle's 
point. This was instantly plunged into his bosom, and repeat- 
ed strokes were given, the victim resisting to the last breath. 
Wattawamat and the other Indians were also slain at the same 
time, and the young man was taken, and afterwards hanged. 
The struggle was awful, but without noise. Hobomak was a 
calm spectator of the appalling scene; after it was closed, he 
said to the Captain, yesterday Pecksuot, bragging of his own 
strength and stature, said, though you were a great Captain 
yet you were but a little man: but to-day I see you are big 
enough to lay him on the ground. Two more Indians were 
slain by Weston's men. Proceeding to another place, Stand- 
ish killed an Indian; and afterwards met a file of savages, 
which he encountered; and, after a skirmish, compelled them 
to fly into a swamp; he challenged the sachem to a single com- 
bat, but he refused. 

Weston's people, now seeing their danger, resolved to quit 



1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, 57 

their plantation, and requested the assistance of Captain Stan- 
dish in conveying them to the fishing vessels at Monhiggon, 
hoping to find a passage to England. The Captain told them 
that he should not feel himself in danger to reside there with 
fewer men than their number; but, at their desire, he would 
furnish them with corn sufficient for their subsistence, till they 
could arrive at the fishing vessels, although it would almost 
exhaust their own store, and stint them for seed corn. Seeing 
them under sail in their vessel, and clear of Massachusetts Bay, 
he returned to Plymouth in his own shallop, bringing with him 
a few men that preferred a residence ia Plymouth. Thus, 
within one year, was the settlement of Wessagusset broken up, 
and the worthless rabble dispersed. 

Captain Standish, on his return, brought with him the head 
of Wattawamat, as directed, and it was placed on the fort as a 
terror to the Indians. There was at this time an Indian chained 
to the floor in the fort, having been detected in the conspiracy; 
he recognised the head, and was exceedingly terrified; he ac- 
knowledged the existence of the plot, but not his own guilt. 
He entreated earnestly for his life, which was granted, and he 
returned with a message of caution to his brethren. ' The In- 
dians generally, who had been prepared to join the Massachu- 
setts, were terrified by these acts of severe execution. They 
forsook their dwellings, wandered about bewildered, living in 
swamps and deserts, and contracted diseases, of which many 
died. Canancum, sachem of Manomet, Aspinet of Nauset, 
and the interesting lyanough, were among the victims of these 
complicated miseries. When Rev. Mr. Robinson received the 
news of these transactions, he wrote to the church at Ply- 
mouth, 'to consider the disposition of their Captain, who was 
of a warm temper.' He hoped the Lord had sent him among 
them for good, if they used him right; but he doubted whether 
there was not wanting that tenderness of the life of man, made 
after God's image, which was meet; he thought ' it would have 
been happy if they had converted some, before they had 
killed any.' These sentiments are honorable to Mr. Robinson. 
They indicate a generous philanthropy, which must always 
gain our affection, and should ever be cherished. Still the 
transactions, to which the strictures relate, are defensible. As 
to Standish, Dr. Belknap places his defence on the rules of 
duty imposed by his character, as the military servant of the 
colony. The government, it is presumed, will be considered 
as acting under severe necessity, and will require no apology, 
if the reality of the conspiracy be admitted, of which there 
can be little doubt. It is certain, that they were fully per- 



53 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 

suaded of its existence, and, with the terrible example of the 
Virginia massacre in fresh remembrance, had solemn duties to 
discharge. The existence of the whole settlement was at 
hazard. '=^ 

First Patent. The first patent of Plymouth had been taken 
out in the name of John Pierce, in trust for the company of 
adventurers; but when he saw the promising state of their set- 
tlement, and the favor which their success had obtained for 
them with the counsel for New England, he, without their 
knowledge, but in their name, procured another patent of larger 
extent, intending to keep it for his own benefit, and hold the 
adventurers as his tenants, to sue and be sued at his courts. 
In pursuance of this design, in the autumn of the last year he 
despatched the ship Paragon, of which William Pierce was 
master, for New-England, but in 14 days she was forced back 
by severe storms, having got no farther than the Downs. The 
Paragon was repaired at the expense of one hundred pounds, 
and again despatched, but in this attempt the mariners, about 
the middle of February, were obliged in a terrible storm to cut 
away their mainmast, and return to Portsmouth. Pierce was 
then on board with 109 souls. After these successive losses 
and disappointments, he was induced to assign to the company 
of adventurers for £500, the patent which had cost him but 
£oO. A new ship called the Ann, which had been built by the 
company to be sent to this country, was now employed to trans- 
port the passengers and goods, and she arrived at Plymouth in 
July, of which William Pierce, having quit the Paragon, was 
master. The Ann and the Little James of 44 tons, which 
soon followed her track, brought supplies for the plantation 
which were much needed, and about sixty passengers. The 
goods, with the charge of passengers in the ship, cost the com- 
pany <£640. The Paragon arrived at Plymouth in the month 
of June, under the command of Francis West, who was com- 
missioned to be Admiral of New-England, with power to re- 
strain such ships as came either to fish or trade on the coast 
without license from the New-England council; but finding the 
fishermen too stubborn and strong for him, he sailed for Vir- 
ginia. The owners of the fishing vessels complained to the 
Parliament of this attempted restraint, and procured an order 
that fishing should be free. 

The Colonists were essentially benefitted by a vast abundance 
of bass, caught in the creeks; on some occasions, 1500 were 
taken at one tide: when these resources failed they resorted to 

* Judge Davis's edit. New-England Memorial, p. 91. 



1623] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ' 59 

the never-failing clam banks. It was their misfortune, in the 
early part of the summer, to be reduced to the severest suffer- 
ings, threatening a famine, by a scantiness of provisions. A 
vessel with supplies, which they expected in the spring, was 
twice obliged to put back by stress of weather, and did not 
arrive till August. In May, they planted an unusual quantity 
of Indian corn, but it was so ordered, that a drought of six 
weeks continuance cut off all their favorable prospects. Until 
the middle of July, the earth was as ashes, the produce scorched 
as before a fire, and the hopes of man were overthrown. In 
this extremity, as in all adverse circumstances, these pious suf- 
ferers invoked the God of heaven for relief. A day of humil- 
iation and prayer was appointed; the morning was fair and the 
sky cloudless; their fervent religious worship was continued 
eight or nine hours without ceasing. At night the clouds were 
seen to gather, and the sky was overcast; the next morning 
they were cheered with moderate refreshing showers, and the 
rains continued to descend at intervals for fourteen days. The 
natives were struck with amazement. Hobomak, during the 
continuance of the drought, expressed his grief and concern 
lest the English should lose all their corn, and starve. The 
Indians, said he, can live on fish. But after the rain he re- 
joiced and said, ' No\y I see Englishman's God is a good God, 
for he hears you and sends rain, and without storms and tem- 
pests which break down our corn; surely he is a good God.' 
At a convenient season they also solemnized a day of public 
thanksgiving for rain, and for a supply of provisions from Eng- 
land. ^ By the time our corn is planted,' said Bradford, ^ our 
victuals are spent, not knowing at night where to have a bit in 
the morning, and have neither bread nor corn for three or four 
months together; yet bear our wants with cheerfulness, and 
rest on Providence.' The devout elder Brewster lived for 
many months together without bread, and chiefly or^. fish and 
clams, yet with this scanty fare, he, with his family, would 
give thanks that they could * suck of the abundance of the 
seas, and of the treasures hid in the sand,' In winter, much 
use was made of ground nuts instead of bread, and wild fowls 
were constantly to be obtained in the marshes and creeks, and 
not unfrequently a deer was brought from the forest, which 
were divided among the whole company. It has been stated 
that they were at one time reduced to a single pint of corn, 
which being equally divided gave to each person five kernels, 
which were parched and eaten. The first establishment of the 
planters embraced such circumstances, as to maintain a com- 
munity of interest, as respects the cultivation of the land, an4 



60 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1623 

the product was necessarily thrown into the common stock. — 
By the articles of agreement with the merchant adventurers in 
England, the personal services of the planters, and of their 
wives and children, were estimated at a stipulated rate, and to 
make common stock with property advanced, either by them 
or their adventurers. But this year it was judged advisable to 
change the system and create an individual interest, by allow- 
ing every family the product of its labor to its own particular 
use. Each family to have a certain parcel of land in propor- 
tion to its numbers, on the condition only of a certain portion 
of the corn set apart at the harvest for those- who were engaged 
in public business and for the fishermen. This arrangement 
operated as a stimulus to individual industry, and a larger 
quantity of corn was planted this year than before. Among 
the passengers who arrived in the two ships, the Ann and the 
Little James, in July and August, were Timothy Hatherly, 
George Morton, and John Jenney, with the wives and children 
of some who had arrived before. By these, letters were re- 
ceived from their agent, Mr. Cushman, and from the adven- 
turers. Mr. Cushman writes ' Some few of your old friends 
are come; they come dropping to you, and by degrees; I hope 
ere long you sharll enjoy them all.' The adventurers write, 
' Let it not be grievous to you, that you have been instruments 
to break the ice for others, who come after with less difficulty; 
the honor shall be yours to the world's end. We bear you 
always in our breasts, and our hearty affection is towards you 
all, as are the hearts of hundreds more, which never saw your 
faces, who doubtless pray for your safety as their own.' 

These new comers were extremely affected with the misera- 
ble condition of those who had been almost three years in the 
country. An interview with old friends under such suffering 
circumstances was truly appalling. ' The best dish we could 
present them with,' says governor Bradford, 'is a lobster or 
piece of fish, without bread, or any thing else but a cup of fair 
spring water; and the long continuance of this diet, with our 
labors abroad, has somewhat abated the freshness of our com- 
plexions; but God gives us health.' 

First Juinj. — It appears from the following ordinance, that 
this little band of exiles duly appreciated the privilege of trial 
by jury : 

^It is ordained, this 17th day of December, A. D. 1623, by 
this court, then held, that all criminal facts, and also all mat- 
ters of trespass and debts between man and man, shall be tried 
by the verdict of twelve honest men, to be impannelled ay au- 
thority, in form of a jury upon their oaths.' — Colony Records. 



1624] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 61 

Under August 14th of this year, Mr. Prince places the fourth 
marriage in the settlement, governor Bradford to Mrs. Alice 
Southvvorth. This is taken, it is said, from the governor's re- 
gister. A more particular account will be given under the 
year 1657. 

On the 10th of September, the Ann sailed for London, on 
company account, laden with clapboards, and all the beaver 
and other furs which had been collected at Plymouth. Mr. 
Edward Winslow went passenger in the Ann, ' to inform how 
things are,' says governor Bradford, 'and procure what we 
want. ' 

1624. — The colonists had hitherto appointed but one assist- 
ant to the governor; but the present year, by the request of 
Mr. Bradford, four others were added, and to the governor was 
given a double vote. Governor Bradford on this occasion 
strongly recommended a rotation in the office, alleging that if 
it were any honor or benefit, others beside himself should par- 
take of it; if it were a burden, others should help to bear it. 
But he was, notwithstanding, re-elected, and repeatedly af- 
terwards. 

On the request of the people to the governor that they might 
have some land for permanent use, instead of the accustomed 
assignment by annual lot, he gave every person an acre for 
himself and his family, as near to the town as was convenient.* 

Edward Winslow, having been sent to England the last 
year, as an agent for the colony, on his return home brought 
three heifers and a bull, which were the first neat cattle brought 
to Plymouth. The settlers were destitute of milk the first four 
years. Mr. Winslow was absent but six months, and brought 
with him provisions and clothing. 

When we consider the sequestered situation of our puritan 
fathers, and their privations and sufferings, it is scarcely credi- 
ble that a spirit of enmity should subsist against them on the 
other side of the Atlantic. But such was the fact; a division 
among the adventurers took place, a party of them were dis- 
satisfied with the affairs of the colonists; groundless calumnies 
were urged against them; and it was determined, if possible, 
to prevent Rev. Mr. Robinson and the remainder of his church 
from coming over, alleging that their narrow scheme of reli- 

* The particular location of these lots to each individual family 
respectively, may be found in Judge Davis's edition of the Me- 
morial and also in Hon. Mr. Baylies' Historical Memoir, vol. i. 
page 257. 



62 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1624 

gious polity was unfriendly to a trading establishment. With 
Mr. Winslovv, one John Lyford, a preacher, but a man of 
loose morals, was sent over by some of the adventurers. This 
man, on his first arrival, saluted the planters apparently with 
great reverence and humility, bowing and cringing in a very 
unbecoming manner, and even wept when blessing '■ God that 
had brought him to see their faces.' The governor treated 
him with all respect, and g,dmitted him into his councils with 
Elder Brewster, and others. He soon desired to be received 
into fellowship with their church, making a confession of his 
faith, and a humble acknowledgment of his former sinful 
courses, and blessed God for the opportunity of disburdening 
his conscience, 8lc. It was not long before he was observed in 
close intimacy with one John Oldham, a man of turbulent and 
restless spirit, and the mischievous effects of this association 
soon became manifest. They diffused a factious spirit among 
the more vicious part of the populace, who could be brought in 
opposition to the colonists, and in aid of their enemies in Eng- 
land. Lyford wa& observed to be much engaged in writing 
letters to go by the return ship to England, and was not very 
careful to conceal a knowledge of their contents from those 
whom they most concerned. It was even boasted openly, 
among the confidants of Lyford and Oldham, that their letters 
would effect a change of affairs at Plymouth. The governor, 
apprehensive that these letters would be productive of evil 
consequences, should they reach their destination in England, 
thought himself bound to intercept them. He went on board 
the vessel in the harbor, and, on representing to Capt. Wil- 
liam Pierce, the commander, his suspicions, it was agreed that 
the letters should be unsealed, as the welfare of the colony was 
doubtless deeply involved in the issue. A scene of perfidy 
was now disclosed, making it evident that they were scheming 
a total subversion of the civil authority, and of the church gov- 
ernment, that the affairs of the colony might devolve on 
themselves. Their letters were filled with base invective, and 
false accusations against both church and state in the new colo- 
ny. The governor deemed it proper to take copies of these 
letters; but of some of the most palpably obnoxious, he re- 
tained the originals, and replaced them with copies. The 
breaking the seals of private letters may always be justified, 
when for the purpose of detecting a treasonable correspond- 
ence, which may affect the ruin of a community. Amongst 
the Lyford letters was one to John Pemberton, a minister well 
known to be inimical to the colony, and in this letter were en- 
closed copies of a letter from a gentleman in England to Mr. 



1624] HISTORY 0# PLYMOUTH. 63 

Brewster, and of another from Mr. Winslovv to Rev. Mr. 
Robinson. These two copies were taken from the original 
sealed letters by Lyford, when on board the ship while laying 
at Gravesend bound to America. 

Governor Bradford remained silent respecting the informa- 
tion which he had obtained, but kept a strict watch over the 
conduct of the culprits, that their adherents and their designs 
mioht be more clearly discovered. Oldham soon became 
obstreperous, refusing to comply with his military duty, when, 
according to rule, called on to watch. He even insulted the 
captain and attacked him with a knife, and ranted furiously 
against all who attempted to quiet him. He was imprisoned, 
and a slight punishment being inflicted, he made confession 
and was released. Soon after this, Lyford, with his accompli- 
ces, proceeded to extremity, in defiance of the ruling authority, 
and without consulting the governor, church, or elder, set up a 
public meeting apart on the Lord's day, and attempted to ad- 
minister the sacrament. In this crisis of affairs, the governor 
summoned a court of the whole company, and preferred his 
charges against Lyford and Oldham. With audacious face 
they denied the charges, and required proof On this extraor- 
dinary occasion, governor Bradford expatiated on the princi- 
pal objects and views of their migration here, the toils and 
sufferings to which they had been subjected, that they might 
enjoy the ordinances of God in freedom and quietness. In 
adverting to the case of Lyford, he reminded him that he had 
not participated in those sufferings, nor in the expense, but 
was sent over, and, with his large family, received kindly and 
supported at much expense; and now to plot against them and 
seek their ruin, was most unjust and perfidious. Lyford still 
denied the charge, and pretended not to understand the 
language addressed to him. The governor could no longer 
withhold the overwhelming truth. The letters from his own 
hand were now produced, and where is the man with sufficient 
effrontery not to be utterly confounded? Oldham began to be 
furious, and to rage bitterly that their letters had been inter- 
cepted. He endeavored to excite a mutiny among the people, 
exhorting them to show their courage, that now was the time 
to side with him in open rebellion, and he would stand by them. 
But he gained not a man; all were confounded and even the 
seditiously disposed were quelled through fear. The governor 
now proceeded to reprove Lyford for his base hypocrisy and 
treachery; in abusing his friends, in breaking the seals of pri- 
vate letters and taking copies; and at this time he caused 
Lyford 's letters to be read to the whole company. He was 



64 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, [1224 

next reminded of his confession when admitted to church- 
fellowship, and his saying at that time that he did not hold 
himself a minister till he could have a new calling for that pur- 
pose, and yet, now he had drawn a party aside, and, without 
acquainting the governor or the church, was about to adminis- 
ter the sacrament, by virtue of his former calling. He only 
replied, that many persons had complained to him of abuses, 
but the persons he named denied his assertions. At length the 
miscreant, with eyes streaming with tears, confessed ' that he 
feared he was a reprobate, and that his sins were so great that 
God would not pardon them; he was "unsavory salt," and 
that he had so wronged them that he could never make them 
amends;' confessing ' all he had written against them was false 
and naught, both for motive and manner.' 

Both of these men were convicted, and the court sentenced 
them to be expelled from the plantation. Oldham waste depart 
immediately, though his wife and family had liberty to tarry all 
winter, or till he could remove them comfortably. Lyford had 
liberty to tarry six months, and the governor intended to remit 
his punishment, if his repentance proved sincere. He acknowl- 
edged that his sentence was just, far less than he deserved, and 
afterwards confessed his sin before the church with tears in 
abundance. He acknowledged that he had slanderously abused 
the people, expecting that a majority would side with him, and 
that he should gain his point; and he now blessed God that his 
designs were frustrated. He confessed himself to be actuated 
by pride, vain glory and self-love; that his eyes and his ears 
were shut against all good; and that if God should make him a 
vagabond on the earth, as was Cain, it would be just. Such 
v/as the apparent sincerity of these professions of sorrow and 
repentance, that many ' tender hearted persons' had pity and 
compassion on him, and he was again permitted to teach, and 
some were willing to fall on their knees to have his sentence 
remitted. 

Can it be credited, that in less than three months after his 
conviction, and before the term of his probation had expired, 
notwithstanding all his tearful confessions before God and the 
church, he should be found guilty of a new offence? He 
actually wrote another slanderous letter to his abettors in 
England, but the person to whom it was entrusted delivered it 
to the governor. John Oldham departed from Plymouth to 
Nantasket, and Lyford accepted of an invitation to be the 
minister of Cape Ann. At the annual election in March, 1625, 
Oldham returned to Plymouth, in violation of his sentence the 
last year, which prohibited his return without the consent of 



1624] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 65 

the Governor. He behaved again in such a factious and abu- 
sive manner, that his own associates were ashamed to be seen 
in his company, and it became necessary to confine him, till 
some punishment could be prepared for him. He was made to 
run the gauntlet through a double file of armed men, and each 
man was ordered to give him a blow as he passed, with the butt 
end of his musket, saying at the same time, ' go and mend your 
manners; ' he was then conducted to his boat, which lay at the 
water's side for his departure. 

Oldham afterwards applied himself to trade at Nantasket, 
with commendable industry and good success. He undertook 
a voyage to Virginia, and, while in imminent danger of ship- 
wreck, his mind was deeply impressed with a sense of his evil 
course of life, and he made many confessions and promises of 
amendment, if God should spare his life, and these vows he 
verified by a more correct course, insomuch, that the people of 
Plymouth permitted him to come into the place, whenever it 
might be convenient. Some time after, while on a trading 
voyage at Block Island, having some contention with the In- 
dians, he fell a sacrifice to their barbarity. As to Lyford, Mr. 
Winslow, while in England, made such disclosures of his con- 
duct when in Ireland, as could not fail to confound his best 
friends and adherents; and among the adventurers he was 
finally condemned, as unfit for the ministry. After -suffering 
many disappointments and troubles, he went to Nantasket, then 
to Salem, and afterwards to Virginia, where he sickened and 
died. The afl^air of Lyford and Oldham is narrated by Secre- 
tary Morton, in language of great severity if not prejudice, and 
some suggestions of caution in its perusal are found in other 
authors. 

Captain Smith's statistical account of Plymouth, at this 
period is thus condensed in Prince's Chronology. 'At New 
Plymouth, there are now about laO persons, some cattle and 
goats, but many swine and poultry; thirty-two dwelling houses; 
the town is impaled about half a mile in compass. On a high 
mount in the town they have a fort well built of wood, lime and 
stone, and a fair watch-house; the place it seems is healthful, 
for in the three last years, notwithstanding their great want of 
most necessaries, hath not one died of the first planters: and 
this year they have freighted a ship of 1 80 tons. The general 
stock already employed by the adventurers to Plymouth, is 
about seven hundred pounds.' 

In the same ship which brought Mr. Lyford to Plymouth, 
came a carpenter and a salt maker, both sent by the adven- 
turers. ' The carpenter,' says governor Bradford, * is an honest 
6* 



66 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1625 

and very industrious man, quickly builds us two very good and 
Strong shallops, with a great and strong lighter, and had hewn 
timber for two ketches; but this was spoilt; for in the heat of 
the season of the year, he falls into a fever and dies, to our 
grief, loss and sorrow.' The salt maker he describes as one 
ignorant, foolish, and self-willed, and who produced nothing. 
On the 5th of August, Mr. Thomas Prince, who was afterwards 
governor, was married to Miss Patience Brewster, being the 
ninth marriage which had been solemnized in the colony. 

1625. — Great dissensions having prevailed among the mer- 
chant adventurers in London, and being under considerable pe- 
cuniary embarrassments, the company this year, 1625, dissolved, 
and the major part of its members relinquished all interest in the 
affairs of the company, and left the colonists to provide for 
themselves. The colonists were, this year, so successful in 
their crops of Indian corn, that they were overstocked, and, 
wishing to convert pait of it to some profit in trade, and having 
no other vessels than two shallops, they laid a deck on one of 
them, and sent her, laden with corn, to Kennebeck. Although 
the shallop was provided with a deck amid-ship to keep the 
corn dry, yet the men were exposed to the weather without 
shelter. Having no seamen for the service, Mr. Winslow and 
some of the ' old standards,' performed this yoyage, in a tem- 
pestuous season, on the approach of winter. They disposed of 
the corn to advantage, and returned with seven hundred pounds 
of beaver, besides other furs, and at the same time opened a 
profitable trade for future occasions. 

The merchant adventurers at London sent two ships on a 
trading voyage to New-England; on their return they were 
laden with dry fish and furs; the smaller ship was towed by the 
larger till they reached the English channel, when, being cast 
off, she was captured by a Turkish man of war and carried into 
Sallee, where the master and his men were made slaves. In 
the larger ship, Capt. Miles Standish went over as agent in be- 
half of the plantation, in reference to some affairs depending 
between them and the adventurers. He providentially escaped 
the fate of those in the other vessel. 

1626. — In April of this year, Capt. Miles Standish returned 
from England. Pie was the bearer of tidings which occasion- 
ed universal grief and sorrow. It was the death of the Rev. 
John Robinson, the beloved pastor of the Leyden and Ply- 
mouth church. Mr. Robinson died at Leyden, March 1st, 
1625, in the fiftieth year of his age. A greater loss could not 
have been sustained in their circumstances. A particular de- 
tail of the character of this great and good man will be found 
under the head of Ecclesiastical History, in this volume. After 



1626] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 67 

his death his son, Isaac, with his mother, came over to Amer- 
ica, and settled at Barnstable. Mr. Prince observes, he was a 
*' venerable man whom I have often seen." He lived to the 
age of ninety and left male posterity in the county of Barnsta- 
ble. The Rev. John Robinson who was many years after min- 
ister of Duxbury, was bor^ in Dorchester from another family, 
and graduated at Harvard college in 1695. Another instance 
of death very afflictive to the colonists, was announced by 
captain Standish. It was Mr. Robert Cushman, one of their 
most valued friends. Mr. Cushman had resided in England 
since his return from Plymouth in 1621. He was a man of 
estimable character, and rendered essential service to the col- 
onists. When at Plymouth in 1621, although a layman, he 
preached a sermon ' on the sin and danger of self-love.' This 
was the first sermon ever preached in New England : accord- 
ing to tradition, the spot where it was delivered was the com- 
mon house of the plantation, on the southerly side of Leyden 
street. It was printed in London in 1622, and afterwards re- 
printed in Boston, in 1724. Another edition was published at 
Plymouth in 1785, with an appendix, giving some account of 
the author. In 1822, this celebrated sermon was again pub- 
lished at Stockbridge, with the appendix. 

In governor Bradford's letter-book, a fragment of which is 
preserved, is a letter from four of the adventurers written 
eighteenth December, 1624, said by Governor Bradford to be 
in Mr. Cushman's hand-writing. It gives much insight into 
their affairs, especially relative to their connexion with the ad- 
venturers, and evidences the good sense and excellent spirit 
of the writer. He wrote about the same time to Governor 
Bradford. In the same letter-book, is a copy of Governor 
Bradford's reply, dated June 9th, 1625, probably sent by Capt. 
Standish. In his letters to Governor Bradford, Mr. Cushman 
expresses a hope of coming to them in one of the next ships. 
His son Thomas, at that time a youth, whom he brought with 
him in the Fortune, in 1621, was then in the family of governor 
Bradford. ' I must entreat you,' says he in his last letter, * to 
have a care of my son as your own, and I shall rest bound unto 
you.' The request, we can have no doubt, was sacredly re- 
garded. This son became a useful member of the society in 
which he was nurtured from childhood. He was chosen ruling 
elder of the church in 1649, after the death of Elder Brewster, 
He married Mary, a daughter of Mr. Allerton, and died 1691, 
aged eighty-four. A tombstone was erected to his memory in 
1715, by the church and congregation at Plymouth. He left 
several children. One of them, Isaac, was the first minister of 
Plympton. His widow survived till 1699. She is the person 



68 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1G27 

mentioned by Hutchinson, vol. ii. p, 408, as the only one of 
the first comers surviving in 1698. Descendants from this 
respectable stock are numerous, especially in Plympton, Dux- 
bury and Middleborough.' — Memorial. In the will of Elder 
Thomas Cushman, dated October 22d, 1690, he mentions his 
sons Thomas, Isaac, Elkanah and^EIeazer. Also his wife 
Mary, and his daughters Sarah Hook, and Lydia Harlow. — 
His sons Thomas, Isaac and Elkanah, settled in Plympton and 
died there, and probably Eleazer also. 

1627. — For greater convenience of trade, the Plymouth 
colonists this summer built a small pinnace at Manomet, a 
place twenty miles to the south of Plymouth, (Buzzard's 
Bay,) to which place they transported their goods. Having 
taken them up a creek within four or five miles, they carried 
them over land to the vessel, and thus avoided the dangerous 
navigation around Cape Cod, and made their voyage to the 
southward in far less time, and with much less hazard. For 
the safet} of their vessel and goods, they also built a house, 
and kept some servants there, who planted corn, raised hogs, 
and were always ready to go out with the bark, and this became 
an establishment of some importance. In the time of the late 
war with Great Britain, the editor of the Memorial says, he had 
an opportunity to witness at Sandwich a revival of this mode 
of conveyance, to which the inhabitants of Cape Cod found it 
convenient to resort for the purpose of avoiding the risk of 
capture by the enemy's cruisers on the coast. 

At this period the colonists received numerous letters from 
their affectionate friends and brethren at Leyden. They were 
sorrowing under the irreparable loss of their beloved pastor, 
and pining with little hope for a re-union with their christian 
brethren at Plymouth. They were poor and dejected, and the 
society was hastening to a dissolution. The event of a re- 
union was equally desirable on the part of their friends at Ply- 
mouth. Governor Bradford and his associates were determined 
to make every possible effort to effect the object; no pecuniary 
sacrifices were deemed too great. Mr. Alierton had been sent 
several times, as agent to London, to negotiate a settlement of 
all pecuniary concerns with the company of adventurers, and 
to solicit assistance in behalf of the Leyden church. He re- 
turned in the spring of this year, after a successful execution of 
his commission, and was so fortunate as to purchase all the inter- 
est of the company of adventurers for the planters at Plymouth. 

This year it was deemed expedient to distribute portions of 
land to each person, allotting to each twenty acres of arable 
land, five acres in breadth by the water side and four acres in 
length, in addition to the acre of homestead and garden plot, 



1627] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 69 

formerly allotted. There was also a division of the cattle and 
goats. In the edition of the Memorial, by Judge Davis, page 
389, will be found a particular allotment of cows and goats to 
individual families, and by that list the state of several families 
may be determined. The division of cows and goats took 
place soon after the connexion of the Plymouth settlers with the 
company of merchant adventurers in England was dissolved. — 
In 1624, Mr. James Shirley, merchant of London, and one of 
the adventurers, a warm friend to the pilgrims, gave a heifer to 
the plantation to begin a stock for the poor. In 1638, the 
townsmen of New Plymouth met at the governor's, all the in- 
habitants from Jones's river to Eel river, respecting the disposi- 
tion of the stock of cows given by Mr. Shirley. The amount 
of the stock was very considerable, and a respectable commit- 
tee was appointed to dispose of the same. In one of his let- 
ters, this benevolent gentleman says, ' If you put off any bull 
calves, or when they grow to bigger stature, I pray let that 
money's worth purchase hose and shoes for the poor of Ply- 
mouth, or such necessaries as they may want; and this I pray 
make known to all.' 'AH this gentleman's letters,' observes 
the editor of the Memorial, 'exhibit the most estimable disposi- 
tion. When Plymouth shall distinguish its streets and public 
places with the name of ancient worthies, that of Shirley should 
not be forgotten.' 

In March of this year, messengers arrived at Plymouth from 
the governor of the Dutch plantation at Hudson's river, with 
letters dated atManhattas, Fort Amsterdam, March 9th, 1627, 
and written in Dutch and French. In these letters, the Dutch 
congratulated the English on their prosperous and commend- 
able enterprise, tendered their good will and friendly services, 
and offered to open and maintain with them a commercial in- 
tercourse. The governor and council of Plymouth sent an 
obliging answer to the Dutch, expressing a thankful sense of 
the kindness which they had received in their native country, 
and a grateful acceptance of the offered friendship. The let- • 
ters were signed by Isaac De Razier, Secretary. 

In September, of the same year, the Plymouth planters re- 
ceived a visit from De Razier. Having arrived at the Ply- 
mouth trading-house at Manomet, according to his request, 
governor Bradford sent a boat for him, and he arrived alt Ply- 
mouth, in the Dutch style, with a noise of trumpeters. Pie 
was a chief merchant, and second to the governor. 

The people of Plymouth entertained him and his company 
several days, and some of them accompanied him on his return 
to Manomet, and purchased of him some commodities, especially 



70 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1628 

wampum peach or wampum. The Plymouth settlers were un- 
acquainted with wampum, as an article of commerce, but, 
from the information received from the Dutch, they were in- 
duced to purchase the article of the Indians, to the value of 
d£50, for traffic; it was unsaleable the two first years; but after- 
wards became a very important article of trade, especially with 
the inland Indians, who did not make it. ' Wompompague,' 
"says Mr. Gookin, ^is made, artificially, of a part of the wiWs 
shell; the black is double the value of the white. It is made 
principally by the Narraganset and Long Island Indians. Upon 
the sandy flats and shores of those coasts, the wilk shells are 
found.' In Roger Williams's key, wampum is considered as 
the Indian money, and is described in the 24th chapter of that 
interesting tract. ' One fathom of this, their stringed money, is 
worth five shillings. Their white money they call wampum^ 
which signifies iy^i/c ; their black, si<cA;au'/iocA;, suki signifying 
black.' The editor of the Memorial says he received from the 
late professor Peck, a reply to some inquiries on this subject. 
He was satisfied that wampum was made from the shell of the 
paquawhock, or quahog. A traveller in this country in the 
year 1760, describing his journey from Newark to New York, 
by the way of Saten Island, has the following remark: ^ In my 
way, I had an opportunity of seeing the method of making 
wampum. It is made of the clam shell; a shell consisting 
within of two colors, purple and white, and in form not unlike 
a thick oyster shell. The process of manufacturing it is very 
simple. It is just clipped to a proper size, which is that of a 
small oblong parallelopiped, then drilled, and afterwards ground 
to a round smooth surface, and polished. The purple wampum 
is much more valuable than the white; a very small part of the 
shell being of that color.' 

1628. — The Plymouth company had, for some time, been 
endeavoring to obtain a patent of a tract of land on the Ken- 
nebec river, as a place of trade. This year their object was 
•accomplished, and they erected a house high up the river, and 
furnished it with corn and other commodities, for a market. — 
This year died Mr. Richard Warren, one of the passengers in 
the Mayflower, and a man of great usefulness during the suf- 
ferings and difficulties of the first settlement. Elizabeth 
Warren, the widow of Richard Warren, survived her husband 
about 45 years. She died in 1675, aged 90, Honorable men- 
tion is made of her in the Plymouth records. They had seven 
children, two sons and five daughters, all of whom married in 
Plymouth, excepting Abigail, the youngest daughter, who mar- 
ried Antony Snow, of Marshfield. Richard Warren stands at 



1629] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 71 

the head of the ninth share in the division of cattle in 1627. 
His location of lands was near Eel river, and the farm has 
remained in possession of his descendants till within about seven 
years. The late Honorable James Warren, of Plymouth, was 
a descendant from Richard Warren. 

This year commenced the troubles occasioned by the eccen- 
tric Thomas Morton, of famous ' Merry Mount ' and ' May 
Pole ' memory; but as this 'Lord of Misrule ' was not an in- 
habitant of Plymouth, and as his affairs were transacted chiefly 
at Mount Wallaston, (Braintree,) the reader is referred to the 
New-England Memorial for particulars. 

In 1623 or 1629, some Plymouth people, putting into Nantas- 
ket, met with a Mr. Ralph Smith, in a very miserable con- 
dition, but finding him to be a sober-minded man, and having 
officiated as a minister, they, by his earnest desire, brought hftm 
to Plymouth, where he was settled as their first minister. — See 
Ecclesiastical History. 

1629. — This year. Dr. Fuller, one of the first emigrants, a 
skilful physician as well as pious man, was called to visit some 
sick people at Salem, as a malignant disease prevailed there 
among a company of English emigrants under the care of Mr. 
(afterwards governor) John Endicott. Governor Bradford, and 
some others from the church of Plymouth, went to Salem, to as- 
sist in the ordination of Mr. Skelton, pastor, and Mr. Higgin- 
son, teacher, or ruling elder, by giving the right hand of fellowr 
ship. In August of this year, thirty-five families of the Leyden 
church arrived at Plymouth. They were received with great 
joy, and the expenses of their transportation were paid gratui- 
tously by the undertakers, and they were supported from the 
public stores for more than a year. Mr. Allerton, who made 
a third voyage to England in the autumn of 1628, as agent for 
Plymouth, returned some time in this month. He assisted very 
much the families of the Leyden church in their removal to this 
place. * 

* Mr. Isaac Allerton was chosen the first and only assistant to 
Governor Bradford in 1621, and continued to be elected to that office, 
until 1624 when the number was increased. He was sent five times 
to England, as agent for the colony. In 1629, he employed the 
notorious Thomas Morton, as his secretary, which gave so great 
ofience, that he was obliged to dismiss him. Mr. Allerton accom- 
panied Gov. Bradford and Dr. Fuller to Salem in July 1629, to assist 
in the ordination of Mr. Skelton and Mr. Higginson. In point of 
property he ranked the first, paying taxes to the amount of £3, lis, 
when Mr. Edw. Winslow next to him in wealth paid £2, 5s. His 
character may be inferred from the following passage quoted from 



72 HISTORY OF PLY3I0UTH. [1630 

1630. — Another portion of theLeyden people, about sixty in 
number, arrived on the 8th of May. Their transportation, 
amounting to £550, was paid by the undertakers. 'The 
generosity of the chiefs of the colony to their Leyden brethren,' 
says Mr. BayHes, ' is unparalleled. They almost deprived 
themselves of the common necessaries of life to get them over, 
and to support them, until they were able to support themselves ! ' 

Execution. John Billington, indicted for murder, was found 
guilty, and executed in October. This was the first execution 
in Plymouth colony. Governor Bradford says, ' He was one 
of the profanest amongst us. He was from London, and I 
know not by what friends shuffled into our company. We 
used all due means about his trial; he was found guilty, both 
by grand and petit jury; and we took the advice of Mr. Win- 
thtop, and others, the ablest gentlemen in the Massachusetts 
Bay, who all concurred with us that he ought to die, and the 
land be purged from blood.' He was guilty of the first offence 
in the colony in 1621, when he suffered an ignominious pun- 
ishment. Governor Bradford, writing to Mr. Cushmau in 
1625, says, ' Billington still rails against you, and threatens to 
arrest you, I know not wherefore; he is a knave, and so will 
live and die.' Billington waylaid and shot one John Newco- 
men, in revenge for some affront. It was Francis, who, in 
1621, discovered the lake that has the name of Billington sea. 
In October of this year, the ship called the Handmaid arrived 
at Plymouth, having been twelve weeks at sea, and lost all her 
masts. About sixty passengers arrived, all well; but of twenty- 
eight cows shipped, ten were lost. 

' Whereas our ancient work of fortification, by continuance 
of time is decayed, and christian wisdom teacheth us to depend 
upon God in the use of all good means for our safety, it is 
agreed by court, that fortifications be made in March or April, 
and the governor and council measure the work, and appoint 

the old colony Records, p. 43. " 1633 decb'r 2d. Whereas Mr. 
Will. Bradford was appointed in the behalfe of the Court to enter 
upon the estate of Gndbert Godbertson and Zarah his wife, and to 
discharge the debts of the said Godbert so far as his estate will make 
good. And whereas the greatest part of his debts are owing to Mr. 
Isaack Allerion of Plymouth merchant late brother of the said Zarah, 
the said Isaack halh given free leave to all other his creditors to be 
fully discharged before he receive any thing of his particular debts 
to hims.eir, desirinj^ rather to lose all than other men should lose 
any." He married Fear Brewster, daughter of the Elder, for his 
second wife. His son Isaac was graduated at Cambridge in 1560. 
The posterity of Mr. Allerton are numerous in the U. S. 



1632] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 73 

the whole of their joint and separate part of labor, and, in case 
any shall fail to do their part, they to forfeit ten shillings a day 
for each default, and to pay his or their part of labor, as the 
overseers shall agree.' 

1632. — In the autumn of this year governor Winthrop, of 
Massachusetts, Rev. Mr. Wilson, and some other gentlemen 
from Boston, visited Plymouth. In Winthrop's journal the par- 
ty is thus described: 'The governor, with Mr. Wilson, pastor 
of Boston, and two captains,' &c. The two captains, it may 
be presumed, were Endicott and Underbill. * They went on 
board Captain Pierce's ship, (October 28th) which had just be- 
fore arrived from England, and were put on shore at a place 
called Massagascus. The next mqrning, the governor and his 
company went on foot to Plymouth, and arrived within the 
evening. The governor of Plymouth, Bradford, with Mr. 
Brewster the elder, and some others, came forth and met them 
without the town and conducted them to the governor's house, 
where they were kindly entertained, and feasted every day at 
several houses. On the Lord's day was a sacrament, which 
they did partake in, and in the afternoon Mr. Roger Williams, 
(according to their custom) propounded a question, to which 
their pastor, Mr. Smith, spake briefly. Rev. Mr. Williams 
prophecied,* and after, the governor of Plymouth spake to the 
question; after him, the elder, then some two or three more of 
the congregation. Then the elder desired the governor of 
Massachusetts and Mr. Wilson to speak to it, which they did. 
When this was ended, the deacon, Mr. Fuller, put the congre- 
gation in mind of the contribution, upon which the governor 
and all the rest went down to the deacon's seat and put into the 
bag, and then returned.' 

October Slst. — 'Wednesday, about five in the morning, the 
governor and his company came out of Plymouth, the gover- 
nor of Plymouth, with the pastor and elder, 8tc. accompanying 
them nearly half a mile out of town in the dark. The lieuten- 
ant. Holmes, with two others, and the governor's man, came 
along with them to the great swamp, about ten miles. When 
they came to the great river, they were carried over by one 
Ludham, their guide, (as they had been when they came) the 



* The term prophesying, in the sense intended by Governor Win- 
throp in his account of the relig^ious exercises at Plymouth, has be- 
come obsolete. It originated in the reign of Elizabeth, when the 
puritans maintained frequent religious exercises, in which texts of 
scripiure were interpreted or discussed, one speaking to the subject 
after another, in an orderly method. 
7 



74 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1633 

stream being very strong and up to the hips; so the governor 
called that passage Ludham's Ford. Then they came to a 
place called Hue's Cross: the governor being displeased at 
the name, in respect that such things might hereafter give the 
paptists occasion to say that their religion was first planted in 
these parts, changed the name, and called it Hue's Folly; so 
they came that evening to Massagascus, where they were 
bountifully entertained as before, with store of turkeys, geese, 
ducks, Sac, and the next day to Boston.' 

The great swamp mentioned in this narrative was in Pem- 
broke ; the great river is supposed to be what is now called 
JVorth River. Ludham's Ford was probably in Hanover, about 
fourteen miles from Plymouth. Massagascus was probably 
written Wessagascus, and indicates the place which was com- 
monly called Wessagassett. 

1633. First Water Mill. — January, Stephen Dean cove- 
nanted to set up a water-mill, that should be sufficient to beat 
corn for the whole colony. His mill was erected near Billing- 
ton sea, where he had a house. This mill, as supposed, was 
merely a pounding mill, by which the corn was cleared from 
the hull and prepared for Samp, (Nausamp) and Succatash a 
pleasant and wholesome substitute for bread, for a knowledge 
of which our ancestors were indebted to the Indians. The 
next year it was agreed that Dean's privilege should be sur- 
rendered whenever a grinding mill should be set up. Such a 
mill was soon afterwards erected by John Jenney, for the re- 
cords inform us that, in 1638, John Jenney was presented for 
not grinding corn well and seasonably. 

A lav/ was made in the colony this year, inflicting a penalty 
of twenty pounds on any person who should refuse to accept of 
the office of governor, unless he was chosen two years in suc- 
cession, and whoever should refuse the office of counsellor or 
magistrate, was required to pay ten pounds. 

This year, Mr. Edward Winslow was chosen governor of 
the jurisdiction of New Plymouth, Mr. William Bradford, Cap- 
tain Miles Standish, Mr. John Howland, Mr. John Alden, Mr. 
John Doan, Mr. Stephen Hopkins, and Mr. William Gilson 
were chosen to be his assistants in government. Governor 
Bradford, having served in the office of governor about twelve 
years, now, by importunity, got off. 

At a general court held 28th October, it was by full consent 
agreed upon, that the chief government be held in the town of 
Plymouth, and that the governor live there, and keep his resi- 
dence and dwelling, and there also hold such courts as concern 
the people. 



1634] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 75 

It is a current tradition, that the house, in which the general 
court held their sessions for many years, occupied the identical 
spot on which now stands the dwelhng house of Mr. Thomas 
Jackson, in Main street, and that some of the original timber 
was incorporated into the present house. The walls of the 
chamber were high, in which sat the governor and assistants, 
and the lower room was occupied by the house of deputies. 

All and every person in the colony were to be subject to 
such military orders for training and exercise of arms, as was 
agreed upon by the governor and assistants. 

The town of Plymouth was this year visited with a mortal 
sickness, of which upwards of twenty men, women, and chil- 
dren died. Among others, was that most excellent and pious 
man, Dr. Samuel Fuller. He had attached himself to the 
puritan interest, while at Leyden, and came over as a member 
of Robinson's church, in the Mayflower. He twice visited 
Salem in the discharge of his professional duties, and, being 
experienced in the church affairs at Plymouth, communicated 
some useful information to governor Endicott, relative to the 
formation of a church at Salem, for which he received his 
grateful acknowledgments. He was an ardent friend to the 
church, of which he was deacon, and was distinguished for his 
moral and christian virtues. 'The spring before this sickness,' 
says Morton, (Memorial) ^ there was a numerous company of 
flies, which were like for bigness unto wasps and humble-bees; 
they came out of little holes in the ground, and did eat up» 
the green things, and made such a constant yelling noise as 
made the woods ring of them, and to deafen the hearers. They 
were not heard nor seen by the English in the country before 
this time, but the Indians told them that sickness would follow; 
and so it did. Very hot in the months of June, July, and Au- 
gust, of that summer.' The insect here described, is the lo- 
cust, which has appeared in our woods at distant intervals since. 

In the inventory of Dr. Fuller, three cows were appraised, 
January 2d, 1633, at sixty pounds sterling. 

1634. — This year, Mr. Thomas Prince was chosen governor 
of the jurisdiction of New Plymouth. Mr. William Bradford, 
first assistant, or deputy governor, and six other gentlemea 
were chosen assistants. 

Indian Anecdote. Governor Winthrop mentions in his jour^ 
nal, that ^Mr. Winslow, coming in his bark from Connecticut, 
left his bark at Narraganset, to return to Plymouth by land. 
Asamequin, (Massasoit) his old ally, offered to be his guide; 
but before they took their journey, the Sagamore sent one of 
his men to Plymouth, to tell them that Mr. Winslow was dead, 
and directed him to show where he was killed; whereupon 



76 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1635 

there was much fear and sorrow at Plymouth. The next day, 
when Asamequin brought him home, they asked him why he 
sent such word, he answered that it was their manner to do so, 
that they might be more welcome when they came home.' 

1635. — William Bradford chosen Governor, Edward Win- 
slo^v, Thomas Prince, and five others assistants. 

Mr. E. VVinslow again visited England, as agent for the 
colony, and was joint agent for Massachusetts also. While 
before the council, on the affairs of the colonies, archbishop 
Laud, being greatly incensed against him, as against all the 
colonists, as separatists from the church of England, accused 
him of officiating in the celebration of marriages, and as reli- 
gious teacher. Mr. Winslow acknowledged that he had occa- 
sionally taught publicly in the church and that he had officiated 
in the celebration of marriages as a magistrate, and that he 
himself had been married by a magistrate. The archbishop 
pronounced him guilty of separation from the national church, 
and ' by vehement importunity,' says governor Bradford, ' got 
the board at last to consent to his commitment. He was con- 
veyed to the Fleet prison, and was there confined about seven- 
teen weeks.' — See Ecclesiaslical History. 

On the 15th of August, Plymouth was visited by a tremen- 
dous storm or hurricane, which is thus described in Morton's 
Memorial, ' It began in the morning a little before day, and 
grew, not by degrees, but came with great violence from the 
beginning to the great amazement of many: it blew down sun- 
dry houses, and uncovered divers others; divers vessels were 
lost at sea in it, and many more were in extreme danger. It 
caused the sea to swell in some places to the southward of Ply- 
mouth, as it rose to twenty feet right up and down, and made 
many of the Indians to climb into the trees for safety. It 
threw down all the corn to the ground, which never rose more, 
and the which, through the mercy of God, it being near the 
harvest time, was not lost, though much the worse; and had 
the wind continued without shifting, in likelihood it would have 
drowned some part of the country. It blew down many hun- 
dred thousand of trees; turning up the stronger by the roots, 
and breaking the high pine trees, and such like, in the midst, 
and the tall young oa'ks and walnut trees of good bigness were 
wound as withes by it, — very strange and fearful to behold. 
It began in the southeast and veered sundry ways, but the great- 
est force of it, at Plymouth, was from the former quarter: it 
continued not in extremity above five or six hours, liefore the 
violence of it began to abate; the marks of it will remain for 
many years in those parts where it was sorest. The moon suf- 



1635] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 77 

fered a great eclipse two nights after it.' There is a close 
similarity between the hurricane described by Mr. Morton, and 
that which we experienced at the same place in 1815.* 

March 15th. — Thomas Boreman agreed, and was to be paid 
in beaver, at ten shillings a piece, or other commodities of val- 
uable price, to be levied on the company, to do the fort in the 
manner following: all the posts, ten inches square, and not to 
stand above ten feet asunder; to be done with three rails be- 
tween every post, the post and rails to be sawed, he to enclose 
the whole with sawed boards; to be nine feet high, and to be 
cut sharp at the top. 

It appears that previous to this date the general court pro- 
mulgated no penal laws, but the people were governed by the 
moral law of Moses and the New Testament, as paramount to 
all others. These laws indeed accord with that patriarchal 
simplicity of manners and morals, which were the crowning 



*In the above mentioned tempest, a bark belonging to Mr. AUer- 
ton of Plymouth, was shipwrecked on an Island in Salem harbor, 
and 21 out of 23 persons were drowned. The vessel was returning 
from Ipswich to Marblehead, having onboard Mr. Anthony Thacher, 
his wife and 4 children, and Rev. John Avery, his wife and 6 chil- 
dren ; they were recently from England, and Mr. Avery was about 
to settle at Marblehead. None of the company were saved except 
Mr- Thacher and his wife, who were cast on the island in a remarkr 
able manner, while their 4 children perished. According to Dr. C. 
Mather, the vessel was dashed to pieces on a rock; and while Mr. 
Avery and Mr. Thacher were hanging on the rock, Mr. Thacher 
holding his friend by the hand, and resolved that they should die to- 
gether, Mr. Avery, having just finished a short and devout ejacula- 
tion, was by a wave swept off into the sea. Mr. Thacher ^ave to 
the island his own name, and to the rock Avery^s Fall. Mr. Thach- 
er became one of three grantees of land in the town of Yarmouth, 
county of Barnstable, where he died, in 1688, aged about 80 years. 
He was employed in various public offices, and represented the town 
in the general coourt at Plymouth, in 1643, and in ten subsequent 
years. His oldest son, the Hon. John Thacher, born after the ship- 
wreck, was for several years a representative to the general court, 
and was one of the council of war, and one of the Governor's as- 
sistants. In 1692, he was chosen a member of the provincial coun- 
cil, in which station he continued till his death in 1713, aged 75 
years. The descendants of this family are very numerous ; the au- 
thor of this history is of the fifth generation from Anthony Thacher 
Mr. Thomas Thacher, nephew to Anthony, and who came over with 
him, says Dr. Mather, 'had such a strong and sad impression upon 
his mind about the voyage, that he was induced to travel the journey 
by land, and thereby escaped the shipwreck.' 
7# 



78 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1636 

characteristics of the puritan fathers. Among the penalties 
inflicted on individuals under the administration of governor 
Bradford, governor Winslow, and governor Prince, from 1632 
to 1640, we find the following instances recorded. Frances 
Sprague, for drinking overmuch, fined ten shillings; Frances 
Billingham and John Philhps, for drinking tobacco in the high 
way, twelve shillings each — this was probably using tobacco 
by smoking. Stephen Hopkins, presented for selling beer at 
two pence per quart, which was worth but one penny. John 
Barnes for sabbath-breaking, was fined thirty shilHngs, and set 
one hour in the stocks. Edward Holman, less guilty, fined 
twenty shillings. Thomas Clarke, for selling a pair of boots 
and spurs for fifteen shillings, which cost him but ten, fined 
thirty shillings. William Adey, for working on Sunday, was 
severely whipt at the post. 

1636. — Edward Winslow was chosen governor this year. 

Plymouth Declaration of Rights. The body of laws adopted 
by the colony of Plymouth, styled ' The general Fundamen- 
tals,' was now established. The first article is' ' That no act, 
imposition, law, or ordinance, be made or imposed upon us at 
present, or to come, but such as has been, or shall be, enacted 
by the consent of the body of freemen or associates, or their 
representatives legally assembled; which is according to the 
free liberties of the free born people of England.' 

The second article is, ' And for the well governing this col- 
ny, it is also ordered, that there be a free election annually of 
governor, deputy governor, and assistants, by the vote of the 
freemen of this corporation.' The fundamentals are dated, 
1636. The style of enactment is, ' We, the associates of the 
colony of New Plymouth, coming hither as free born subjects 
of the kingdom of England, endowed with all and singular the 
privileges belonging to such, being assembled, do enact, or- 
dain, and constitute,' Stc. 

Plymouth Laics. — ' For the better government of the Indians, 
£Uid for their improvement in civility and Christianity, the as- 
sembly of Plymouth colony made several laws for preaching 
the gospel to them; for admitting Indian preachers among 
them, Stc. with the concurrence of the principal Indians; for 
making orders and constituting courts, for appointing civil 
rulers, and other officers, to punish misdemeanors, with the 
liberty of appeal to the county court and court of assistants.' — 
Holmes^ Annals. 

Capital offences punished with death. Rebellion against the 
king, murder, solemn compaction or conversing with the devil, 
by way of witchcraft, or the like. In the formation of the laws, 



1636] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 79 

regard was had, ' primarily and principally, to the ancient plat- 
form of God's law.' * 

I have hitherto detailed the concerns of the colony and the 
town, hand in hand, without distinction. While the governor 
and assistants acquitted themselves of appropriate duties, they 
fulfilled those of magistrates and of selectmen. The court of 
assistants was composed of the governor and assistants, and 
the deputies from the several towns, forming the lower house. 

In order to a more full understanding of the mode of gov- 
ernment in the colony, it may be expedient here to present, in 
one view, a concise statement of the authority upon which jt 
rested, until, with the other colonies, it was brought under the 
despotism of Andros. This will, necessarily, lead us to some 
anticipation of dates. 

In the 18th year of his reign, (Nov. 3, 1620, while the Pil- 
grims were on their passage,) King James appointed Robert, 
Earl of Warwick, and 39- others, noblemen and gentlemen, to 
compose one body politic, to have one common seal, and to be 
styled. The Council established at Plymouth, in the County of 
Devonshire, for the planting, ruHng and governing New-Eng- 
land in America. To this council or body politic, the King 
granted by patent, an extensive tract or territory in New-Eng- 
land, with the usaal rights^ privileges, and immunities. It was 
from this council that John Pierce obtained his patent, which 
he afterwards assigned to the merchant adventurers. 

In the year 1629, (Jan. 13,) being the 5th year of the reign 
of King Charles I., the Plymouth colony received a patent or 
charter from the council, signed by the Earl of Warwick, as 
President, with the great seal of James I. affixed. This char- 
ter grants the territory of Plymouth colony to William Brad- 
ford and his associates, including also a tract of land 30 miles 
square on Kennebunk river. It recites the rise and progress 
of the plantation, and that it had increased to 300 people. 
But it never received the royal sanction and signature of King 
James, although they were repeatedly promised by his majesty, "j" 

* ' Whatever imperfections may be justly ascribed to our fathers, 
(which, however, were as few as any mortals have discovered,) 
their jadgment in forming their policy was founded on wise and be- 
nevolent principles. It was founded .on revelation and reason too. 
It was consistent with the best, greatest, and wisest legislators of 
antiquity.' — Pres. Adams. 

fThis charter, with the box in which it came, is now in the ofRce 
of the Register of Deeds in this town, 



80 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. [1636 

Under this patent, however, such as it was, and on the basis of 
the voluntary agreement, as expressed in the compact formed 
at Cape Cod in 1620, and which was uniformly acquiesced in 
by the settlers, all the powers of government of the colony 
were exercised, until the interruption by Andros. 

On the second day of March, 1640, governor Bradford sur- 
rendered to the freemen the patent of the colony, which had 
been taken out in his name, with some reservations for the 
purchasers or old comers;* and the settlers proceeded to act 
as an independent colony, acknowledging, however, their obli- 
sation to obey the laws of England generally, and recognising 
the king as their sovereign. But their form of government 
was '' a pure, unmixed and perfect democracy, where all power 
was exercised by the whole' body of freemen or associates," 

'^The pilgrims," says Mr. Baylies, in his valuable history of 
the Old Colony, *' had adopted no constitution, or instrument 
of government, except the simple compact, which was signed 
in the cabin of the Mayflower, November, 1620, and which 
recognised no principle but that of allegiance to the king, and 
the controlling power of the majority of the people in the 
transactions of the colony. No laws were made for the general 
organization of the government; the limits of political rights 
and political powers were not defined; the governor and assis- 
tants maintained their small portion of authority rather by com- 
mon consent, than by a lawful delegation of power. * * * * 
Crimes and punishments were neither declared nor defined. 
The only magistrates were the governor and assistants. The 
office of justice of the peace was unknown. Trials were had 
in the general court before juries, -selected from the whole body 
of the freemen of the colony; and, until 1634, the governor 
and assistants were not by law considered a judicial court. 
The magistrates had no jurisdiction of civil actions, and in 
criminal offences their jurisdiction was confined to the power of 
binding over the accused to appear at the general court. The 
duties, powers and obligations of husband and wife, parent and 

* In the year 1627, Gov. Bradford and a number of associates as- 
sumed the responsibility of the Company's debts, and gave bonds 
for the amount stipulated to be paid to the merchant adventurers in 
England. They afterwards entered into a contract with the rest of 
the Company to hire the trade of the colony for six years. Those 
who engfaged in this contract were called Purchasers. Some, how- 
ever, who had, probably, no concern in the contract, were included 
with the purchasers in a claim to special consideration, under the 
appellation of Old Comers. — Davis^s Edit, of the Memorial. 



1637] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 81 

child, guardian and ward, master and servant, &c., were con- 
trolled and influenced by usages which had been vnried from 
the usages of England, &c. Marriage was deemed a civil 
contract, and was solemnized by the civil magistrate, and not 
by the pastor or elder. With respect to political objects, pre- 
vious to the year 1636, the Plymouth colony may be considered 
to have been but a voluntary association, ruled by the majority, 
and not by fixed laws. It does not appear, except in a very 
few instances, that they availed themselves of their delegated 
powers under their patent to enact laws, until 1633. A few 
laws only, and such as were of the most urgent necessity, were 
then established. * * * *• The power of the church in effect was 
superior to the civil power, but, in terms, was confined to the 
infliction of censure only." 

Literally abstracted from the civilized world, our reverend 
puritan fathers held the bible in estimation as the basis of all 
laws; and the precepts of the gospel, the rules of their lives and 
the fountains of their dearest hopes. It was the inwoven senti- 
ment of their hearts, that the sovereign power resides with the 
people, and this was the fundamental axiom upon which their 
government was reared. 

It was this year enacted, that, on the first Tuesday of June, 
a governor and seven assistants should be chosen, * to rule 
and govern the plantation within the limits of this corporation,' 
and the election was confined to the freemen, church member- 
ship being an indispensable qualification for freemen. 

An oath was to be administered to the governor, the assist- 
ants, the freemen, and to all who resided among them. A 
treasurer and constable were annually chosen, but no sherifl'. 

It was ordered, that every constable-wick should be provided 
with stocks and whipping-posts. These were appendages to 
every meeting house till within the last fifty years. 

It was provided that no servant, coming out of his time, or 
single person, be sufi^ered to keep house for himself, until they 
were completely provided with arms and ammunition, and was 
not allowed to be housekeepers, or to build any cottage or 
dwelling, till such time as he be allowed by the governor and 
council of assistants, or some one or more of them. 

1637. — Edward Winslow chosen governor this year. Great 
disturbance and perplexity was occasioned by one Samuel Gor- 
ton, lately from Boston. He endeavored to introduce heretical 
or obnoxious doctrines, and seduce the people to his opinions, 
and having provoked Mr. Ralph Smith, the minister, to a con- 
troversy, he was^ on his complaint, summoned before the court 
for trial, and, conducting most insolently towards magistrates 



82 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1638 & 39 

and ministers, was fined and ordered to find security for good 
behavior, and to quit the place in fiDurteen days. He next 
went to Rhode Island, where he so conducted that he was 
sentenced to suffer corporal punishment by whipping, and was 
banished. 

This year the colony of Connecticut was engaged in a war 
with the Pequot tribe of Indians, which ended in the utter over- 
throw of the tribe. Plymouth furnished 5Q men, who marched 
for that service under the command of Capt. Miles Standish, 
but the war was terminated before their arrival at the scene of 
action. 

1638. — Thomas Prince chosen governor this year. There 
was a great earthquake in New-England this year, on the first 
day of June. The earth shook with such violence, that, in 
some places, the people could not stand, without difficulty, in the 
streets, and most of the moveable articles in their houses were 
thrown down. This phenomenon formed a memorable epoch 
in the annals of New-England. 

Execution. Four young m.en, who were servants at Plymouth, 
absconded from their masters, and, rambling abroad, met with 
an Indian in the woods near Providence, but within the juris- 
diction of Plymouth; they killed him to rob him of his wam- 
pum; one of the murderers escaped, the other three were 
tried, and, confessing their guilt, were condemned and exe- 
cuted.* It may be thought extravagant to hang three English- 
men for one Indian, but it serves to show the stern purpose 
of the puritans, that the most rigid justice should not be with- 
held from the defenceless natives. 

It is ordered, that if any man make a motion of marriage to 
any man's daughter or maid, without first obtaining leave of 
her parents or master, he shall be punished, according to the 
nature of the offence, by a fine not exceeding five pounds, or 
corporal punishment, or both, at the discretion of the bench. 

Any person denying the scriptures to be a rule of life, shall 
suffer corporal punishment at discretion of the magistrates, so 
as it shall not extend to life or limb. 

The court granted that Clark's Island, the Eel River Beach, 
Saquish, and the Gurnet's Nose, shall be and remain unto the 
town of Plymouth, with the woods thereupon. 

1639. — WilUam Bradford chosen governor this year. * The 

• The cQurt, which tried the above mentioned murderers, consisted 
of governor William Bradford, Edward Winslow, Thomas Prince, 
Capt. Miles Standish, John Alden, John Jenney, John Brown, and 
John Atwood. 



1639] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 83 

towns ia Plymouth colony, for the first time, sent deputies for 
legislation. Their first general assembly Avas on the 4th of 
June. Hitherto, the governor and his assistants, under the 
general name of the associates of the colony of New Ply- 
mouth, were virtually the representatives of the people. All 
laws were enacted, and all government managed by them, for 
nearly twenty years. They had a few laws, which they termed 
general fundamentals; but, in general, they were governed by 
the common law and statutes of England.' 

The representatives from the town of Plymouth to the legis- 
lative assembly in general court this year, were William Paddy, 
Manasseh Kempton, Jr., John Cook, Jr., and John Dur- 
ham. 

This year the general court of Massachusetts passed the fol- 
lowing order for the regulation of the ladies' dresses. ' No 
garment shall be made with short sleeves; and such as have 
garments with short sleeves, shall not wear the same, unless 
they cover the arm to the wrist; and hereafter, no person what- 
ever shall make any garment for women, with sleeves more 
than half an ell wide (twenty -two and a half inches.) 

The First Prison was ordered to be erected at Plymouth ; to 
be twenty-two feet long, sixteen feet wide within walls, and two 
stories high; to have three floors, and covered with boards, 
and well finished. This prison was probably completed in 
1641, as it is mentioned by some writers that the first prison 
was erected in that year. According to the Old Colony re- 
cords, it was seated near Little Brook, hence called Prison 
Brook, where Mr. N. Russell's house now stands. It was this 
year ordered, that the grand jury in each town shall take notice 
of all idle persons, and inquire how they live. If they cannot 
give a good account of themselves, the constable shall bring 
them before the governor or magistrate. In 1640, by an addi- 
tional law it was provided, that each complaint should be made 
on oath. 

It was ordered, that profane swearing should be punished by 
sitting in the stocks three hours, or by imprisonment. For 
telling lies, a fine of ten shillings, or the stocks for two hours, 
for each offence. 

This year the great sachem, Massasoit, and Mooanam, his 
son, came into the court held at Plymouth, on the twenty-fifth 
day of September, and desired that the ancient league and 
confederacy, formerly made with the government of Plymouth, 
wherein he acknowledged himself subject to the king of Eng- 
land and his successors, may stand and remain inviolable. 

The ancient confederacy was fully confirmed for perpetuity 



84 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. [1640, 41 & 42 

by Massasoit and his son, and also by the governor of Ply- 
mouth colony, on their part. 

1640. — William Bradford was chosen governor, and John 
Jenney, John Howland, John Atvvood, and William Paddy 
were the representatives to the legislature. J. B. was pre- 
sented for buying rye at four shilHngs per bushel, and selling it 
at five shillings; also for selling thread at five shillings per 
pound. 

Colebrook South meadows, and Lakenham West meadows, 
were granted to divers persons. At this early period some 
scattered cottages began to extend on the western precincts of 
the township of Plymouth, on the path to Namasket (Middle- 
borough.) 

1641. — Mr. John Jenney was allowed certain privileges at 
Clark's Island to make salt, which he was to sell to the inhab- 
itants at two shillings the bushel. Herring wear let for three 
years to three persons, who are to deliver the shares of her- 
rings, and to receive \s. 6iL the thousand for their trouble. A 
barque, of forty or fifty tons, was built^ at Plymouth, January 
24, 1641. The estimated expense was ,£200, and the whole 
was divided into shares of one eighth or one sixteenth, and 
were contributed by thirteen persons. This was doubtless the 
first vessel of size ever built at Plymouth. , 

It was ordered, that every house-holder within the town shall 
pay a half penny for each person in his family, except poor 
people who have no cattle, for every wolf that shall be killed 
within the liberties of the town, and the killer shall bring the 
skin to Mr. Jenney, and there receive corn for his pay, Mr. 
Jenney to have the skin for his pains. The winter, this year, 
was extremely severe; the harbor and bays frozen over, so as to 
be passable, five weeks, for men, horses, oxen and carts. 

Any person living and quietly settled in any township, with- 
out any objection being made within three months after his 
coming, was to be reputed an inhabitant of that town. 

Provision for the support of the Poor. This year each town- 
ship, by an order and general agreement in a public town- 
meeting, was required to make competent provision for the 
support of its poor, as shall be found most convenient and 
suitable. Children or elderly persons sent out of town to be 
nursed, educated, or doctored, and falling into want, were to 
receive relief from the towns from which they were sent. Chil- 
dren of those, who received relief from the town, were to be 
put to work in fitting employments. 

1642. — William Bradford was elected governor, and John 
Doan and John Cooke deputies. The use of thirty acres of 



1643] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 85 

land at Clark's Island, was granted, for twenty-one years, to 
the five partners that make salt. 

At a town meeting it was ordered, that a fortification be made 
about the ordnance, and another piece mounted on Fort Hill, 
and the governor, Mr. Prince, Mr. Paddy, Mr. Atwood, and 
Mr. Jenney were desired to agree with the workmen to have it 
done speedily. 

1643. — Edward Winslow was this year elected governor, 
and Mr. Prince, Mr. Jenney, Mr. Hopkins, Mr. Paddy, and 
Mr. N. Souther were the deputies. 

This is the memorable epoch of the First Union of the JVeio 
England Colonies. A confederacy had been in agitation sev- 
eral years. As early as 1637, tlie subject was discussed; and 
the following year, articles of union, for amity, offence and 
defence, mutual advice and assistance upon all necessary occa- 
sions, were drawn, and referred to the next year for further 
consideration. Difficulties, however, occurred, which retarded 
the execution of the design, until the present year. The col- 
onies of Connecticut, New Haven and Plymouth, despatched 
Commissioners to Boston in May, at the time of the session of 
the Massachusetts general court. This court appointed com- 
missioners to meet those of the other colonies. A spirit of 
harmony and mutual condescension was auspicious to the great 
object, and on the 19th of May the articles were completed 
and signed at Boston. The reasons assigned for this union 
were, the dispersed state of the colonies; the vicinity of the 
Dutch, Swiss and French, who were inclined to encroach- 
ments; the hostile disposition of the neighboring Indians; the 
appearance of a general combination of these savage tribes, to 
extirpate the English colonies; the commencement of civil 
contests in the parent country; the impossibility of obtaining 
aid from England in any emergency; and in fine the alliance 
already formed between the colonies by the sacred ties of re- 
ligion. The commissioners declared, that, as in nation and 
religion, so in other respects, they be and continue one; and 
henceforth be called by the name of the United Colonies of 
New England. Here we may discern the germ of our present 
national system. 

The members of this league were deemed by all their neigh- 
bors as one body, with regard to their public transactions, 
though the peculiar affairs of each continued to be managed 
by its own courts and magistrates. 

On the completion of the colonial confederacy, several Indian 
sachems came in and submitted to the English government, 
among whom were Miantonomoh, the Narraganset, and Uncus, 



86 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1644 

the Mohegan chief. The union rendered the colonies formida- 
ble to the Dutch as well as Indians, and respectable in the view 
of the French; maintained general harmony among themselves, 
and secured the peace and rights of the country; preserved the 
colonies during the civil wars and unsettled state of England ; 
was the grand instrument of their defence in Philip's war, and 
was essentially serviceable in civilizing and christianizing the 
Indians. The proportion of men assigned to the colonies by 
this alliance, was 100 to Massachusetts, and 45 to each of the 
other three colonies, Plymouth, Connecticut and New Haven. 
This union subsisted with some alterations until the year 1686, 
when all the charters were in effect vacated by a commission 
from King James II. This 'confederacy was acknowledged 
and countenanced by the authority in England, from its begin- 
ning until the restoration; and in letters from King Charles II. 
notice is taken of it, without any exception to the establishment. 
— Holmes's Annals ^ where he notices numerous other authorities, 

A watch-house was this year built of brick, on Fort Hill. — 
The bricks were furnished by Mr. Grimes at lis. a thousand. 
This is the earliest notice of brick. In digging a grave on the 
summit of Fort Hill, a few years since, a large body of brick 
was discovered a ^ew feet beneath tbe surface of the earth. 

Householders were ordered to provide themselves with fire 
arms and ammunition, and drum-heads to be procured by sub- 
scription. In September, the whole township was classed into 
watches, which Were to be kept from sunset to avoid the danger 
of unexpected attacks from the Indians. 

The town agreed with John Smith to be the town's cow 
keeper the present year .for 40 bushels of corn and a pair of 
steers. The corn is to be levied as follov/s. The governor 1 
peck and a pottle, Mr. Prince 1 peck and a pottle, Mr. Paddy 
1 peck and a pottle, Nathaniel Souther 1 peck, Mr. Hanbury 1 
peck, Robert Paddock 1 peck, Mr. Jenney 1 peck, and a half 
in biscuit, Mr. Doane half a peck, Mr. Rayner half a a peck, 
Thomas Southworth half a peck, Richard Sparrow half a peck, 
John Wood half a peck, Mr. Willet half a peck, Samuel 
Hicks half a peck, Josiah Cook 1 pottle, Rowland Knowles 
1 pottle, John Finney 1 pottle, Mr. Hopkins 1 pottle. 

Wolf traps were, by the colony court, ordered to be made; 
and the whole town was classed to make them at various places. 
The wolves made distressing depredations on their herds and 
folds many years. Governor's assistants were classed on this 
occasion. 

1644. — John At wood, who had been one of the assistants, and 
also a deputy to the general court, died this year. He was a 



1644J HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 87 

man of much usefulness in the place, and, in life and death, 
exemplified the christian character. In the course of this year 
the inhabitants of the town, but chiefly the church members, 
had in contemplation a singular project, which well nigh ef- 
fected a total abandonment of their first labors and footpaths on 
our shore. It appears by the church records, that a considera- 
ble part of their body viewed their present establishment as 
barren and unproductive. They became so dissatisfied with 
their unpromising location, that they were willing to relinquish 
all their interest in it for a more advantageous situation. Indi- 
viduals were frequently removing, and the church began se- 
riously to think, whether it were not better to remove jointly 
and bodily, than to be thus weakened and insensibly dissolved. 
Many meetings and much consultation resulted in indecision 
and contrariety of opinion. Some, who opposed the removal, 
would yet assent to it, rather than see a dissolution of the 
church, provided a more eligible situation could be agreed on, 
and a majority at length acquiesced. The place selected was 
no other than JYauset, now Eastham, on Cape Cod, and the 
purchase was made, merely from a superficial view. But on a 
further examination, the new territory disappointed their ex- 
pectations, and they changed their resolution. It was found to 
be 50 miles from the centre of the settlements, remote from all 
society, and surrounded by a wilderness of savages. Its extent 
so limited as to be insufficient to accommodate the whole society, 
much less capable of receiving the increasing numbers. The 
harbor was incomparably less commodious, and more exposed 
to enemies than that of Plymouth. From these and other con- 
siderations, the church, as a body, changed their determination, 
but a considerable number of respectable individuals resolved on 
a removal, and the church relinquished their rights, which were 
purchased by individuals, who removed and took possession.* 
Orders agreed upon by the Council of War. 1. That the lead 
be made up into bullets, and men hired to do it. 2. That when 
an alarm is made and continued in Plymouth, Duxbury, or 
Marshfield, there shall be 20 men sent from Plymouth, and as 
many from Duxbury, and 10 from Marshfield, to relieve the 
place where the alarm is continued. 3. And when any other 
places stand in need of help, upon the continuing of the alarm, 

* Among the principal people who removed from Plymouth to 
Eastham, were Thomas Prince, who had been twice governor of the 
colony, John Doane, one of the deacons of the church, Nicholas 
Snow, Josiah Cook, Richard Higgins, John Smalley, and Edward 
Bangs. Duxbury and Marshfield had before been settled entirely 
from Plymouth. 



88 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1646 

then a beacon to be fired, or else a great fire to be made, for 
Plymouth, upon the gallows hill, on the captain's hill for Dux- 
bury, and on the hill by Mr. Thomas's house for Marshfield. 

' It is worthy of serious remark,' says the writer in Histori- 
cal Collections, vol. iii. second series, ' that nearly the same 
regulations have been resorted to by their posterity, in the war 
of the revolution, and now, (1815) not with the savages, but 
with a people of kindred origin.' 

On the 16th of April of this year, the church and society 
were most grievously afflicted by the death of William' Brews- 
ter, their ruling elder and kind benefactor. The life of this 
excellent man was protracted to the 84th year of his age. — See 
his character in the Ecclesiastical History. 

1646, — Great agitation was occasioned in Plymouth this year, 
by the arrival of Capt. Thomas Cromwell, with three ships of 
war, bringing with them several rich prizes, taken from the 
Spaniards. His seamen were exceedingly intemperate and ri- 
otous; one of them attempted the life of his commander, who, 
wresting his rapier from him, gave him a mortal wound on his 
head. The captain was tried by a court-martial, and acquitted. 

The town was at this time almost deserted, in consequence 
of the removals to Eastham, and other towns, at different times. 
Governor Winthrop represents it as a special interposition of 
divine providence, that Capt. Cromwell's squadron should 
have been compelled by stress of weather to put into the har- 
bor, as, during their continuance of fourteen days, they spent 
liberally, and gave freely to the poorer sort. The freemen and 
townsmen, in town at this time, were, in number, only seventy- 
nine. 

Mr. Edward Winslow was this year a third time despatched 
as agent to England, for the adjustment of some difficulties 
respecting the colonies of both Massachusetts and Plymouth. 
He executed his commission with great ability, and such was 
his high standing in that country, that he accepted some employ- 
ment there, under O. Cromwell, and never returned to Ply- 
mouth, which was much lamented by his brethren in the colony. 
— See life of E. W., page 90. 

In town meeting ordered, that, whereas there is too much 
neglect of appearance at town meetings, if any one neglect to 
come to town meetings when regularly summoned thereto, he 
shall be liable to pay a fine of twelve pence for every such 
default, unless he have a sufficient and lawful excuse. 

It was this year required by the general court that a town 
clerk should be appointed and ordained, to keep in each town 
a register of the day and year of the marriage, birth and burial 



1649, 51] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 89 

of every man, woman, or child, within the township. Every 
father, mother or next in relation was required to certify to the 
register, keeper or town clerk, the name of the day of the birth 
of every child so born within his house, within a month next 
after the birth, under penalty of 3s. for such neglect, or for 
neglecting to inform of marriages. The town was also required 
to publish all contracts of marriages. Towns refusing or neg- 
lecting to choose deputies were fined 50s., and deputies neg- 
lecting to attend court, without sufficient reason, were fined 20s. 

1649. — The death of Governor Winthrop, of Massachusetts, 
this year, 1649, was considered as a heavy loss to all New- 
England. It occasioned much grief and sorrow at Plymouth, 
where his counsel and advice had been often sought and re- 
ceived, as from one of sound judgment and the purest integri- 
ty. He died at the age of sixty. His life and character are 
ably delineated in the American Biography, and by many other 
writers who have been justly impressed with a sense of his worth 
and excellence. 

In town meeting at the house of Governor Bradford, it was 
ordered, that whoever shall kill a wolf or wolves, and bring 
testimony thereof by the skin or head, shall have 15s. for each 
one killed within the town's liberties, and several persons en- 
gaged to pay two coats apiece to any Indian who shall kill a 
wolf, and make it known to the governor by undoubted testi- 
mony, and such as shall kill lesser wolves shall have an axe or 
hatchet for each one killed. And it was further agreed by the 
townsmen present, that as the court has ordered that wolf-traps 
be put in practice, five traps or more be forthwith made by 
several companies in the town, and that Nathaniel Morton give 
notice, by papers, of the names of such as are to join together 
for the end aforesaid, that they may be made and tended. 

Town meetings were first named to be held in the meeting- 
house this year, and seven discreet men were chosen, five being 
a quorum, whose duty it should be to act in behalf of the 
town in disposing of lands; to make inquiry into the state and 
condition of the poor, to provide for their comfortable support, 
and to find them employment; to direct to the proper means of 
relief for the aged and decrepid, and to attend to the afl^airs of 
the town generally. The duties assigned to these fathers of 
the town being the same which afterwards were committed to 
the selectmen, they may be considered as the first selectmen 
ever chosen in the colony. 

1651. — At town-meeting it was ordered, tliat if any persons 
should be disabled from appearing at town-meetings in person, 
they may have libertv to send in their votes by proxy, for the 
8# 



90 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 

choice of governor, assistants, commissioners, and treasurer. 
Voting for the choice of officers, was, in the days of our fathers, 
considered as a civil duty incumbent upon all, and it was en- 
joined under a penalty, unless the party could prove that he 
was prevented by some unavoidable impediment. 

Died this year at Marshfield, William Thomas, and his re- 
mains were honorably buried there. He was one of the mer- 
chant adventurers in England connected with the Plymouth 
planters, and came over about the year 1630. Secretary Mor- 
ton says of him, thtit " he was a well approved and well ground- 
ed Christian, and one that had a sincere desire to promote the 
common good, both of church and state." He was chosen an 
assistant in 1642, and was re-elected to that office, annually, 
until his death. His son, Nathaniel, served in Philip's War, 
in 1675. A grandson, as is supposed, named Nathaniel, was for 
many years Judge of Probate for the county of Plymouth, and 
Judge of the Supreme Court from 1712 to 1718. Dr. Wilham 
Thomas, late of this town, and General John Thomas, late of 
Kingston, were descendants of William Thomas. Nathaniel 
Ray Thomas, Esq., who was a lineal descendant, espoused the 
royal cause at the commencement of the Revolution, and was 
a mandamus counsellor. He abandoned his native country, 
and joined the British. His son, John Thomas, Esq., occupies 
the ancient mansion at Marshfield. 

Nathaniel Basset and Joseph Prior were fined 20s. each, for 
disturbing the church in Duxbury; and at the next town-meet- 
ing or training-day, both were to be bound to a post for two 
hours in some public place, with a paper on their heads, on 
which their crime was to be written in capital letters. Miss J. 
Boulton, for slandering, was sentenced to sit in the stocks during 
the court's pleasure, and a paper written with capital letters to 
be made fast unto her all the time of her sitting there; all of 
which was accordingly perlbrmed. 

1655. — Jonathan Coventry, of Marshfield, was presented for 
making a motion of marriage to Catharine Bradbury, without 
her master's consent. L. Ramsgate was presented for lying, 
slandering, and defaming her brother-in-law. Joanna, the wife 
of O. Mosely, was presented for beating her husband, and 
getting her cbildren to help her, and bidding them knock him 
in the head, and wishing his victuals might choke him. Pun- 
ished at home. 

Edward WlmJoiv. This gentleman was born in the year 
15;)4, and was the son of Edward Winslow, of Droitwich, in 
Worcestershire, England, whose family was ancient and hon- 
orable. He was one of the most efficient and illustrious set- 



1655] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 91 

tiers of the colony of Plymouth. In early life, while travelling 
on the continent of Europe, he became acquainted with John 
Robinson, and soon united himself with the church under his 
pastoral charge atLeyden, where he settled and married. A 
stern advocate for the puritan cause, he embarked with the first 
company of the Leyden church in the Mayflower, and on his 
arrival at Cape Cod, December 11, 1620, subscribed the mem- 
orable covenant of incorporation, and his name stands the third 
on the list. He was one of tha company which, in the shallop, 
first explored the shores of Cape Cod, and which proceeded 
thence to Plymouth harbor, and reached Clark's Island in 
great distress, and which landed there on the third day after. 
Mr. Winslow was one of those who first came on shore, and 
selected the place as the foundation of Plymouth settlement. 
Possessing a sound intellect, a pious heart, and happy address, 
his eminent services in mitigating the sufferings, and promoting 
the settlement and welfare of the lonely pilgrims, entitle him to 
the gratitude of posterity. Accordingly we find his name 
mentioned, with honor, in all the records of transactions per- 
taining to our earliest history. His family consisted of his 
wife, Elizabeth, and three other persons. But on the 24th of 
March, 1621, his wife died, and, on the 12th of May following, 
he married Susannah, the widow of William White. This was 
the first marriage ever solemnized in New England, and the 
lady was the mother of Peregrine White, the first English 
child born in the new colony. When the great sagamore, 
Massasoit, made his first appearance on Strawberry Hill, in- 
viting an interview with the settlers, Mr. W^inslow was deputed 
to meet him, and he voluntarily placed himself a hostage in the 
hands of the Indians, while their chief, Massasoit, held his in- 
terview with governor Carver (page 35). In July, 1621, Mr. 
Winslow and Mr. Stephen Hopkins were appointed to visit 
Massasoit, at his cabin at Pokanoket, for the purpose of ex- 
ploring the country, and ascertaining the situation, character 
and strength of the tribe, and to cultivate their friendship. He 
had the address to accomplish the object of his mission, and to 
confirm the treaty of amity with the great sachem. In the 
month of March, 1623, Mr. Winslow, with John Hampden, was 
again despatched to visit Massasoit when dangerously sick, and 
was the happy means of restoring him to heahh when appar- 
ently about expiring. The details of this visit have already 
been given (page 52 to 5d). In the year 1623, Mr. W^inslow 
was despatched to England in the Ann, as an agent, to transact 
some concerns for tlie colony, and, in the short spacei of six 
months, he returned in the ship Charity, bringing provisions, 



92 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 

clothing, and the first stock of neat cattle ever in New Eng- 
land. While in England he published a narrative of the set- 
tlement and transactions of the colony of Plymouth, entitled 
*' Good News from New England, or, A Relation of things 
remarkable in that Plantation — by Edward Winslow." This 
narrative is abridged in Purchase's Pilgrims, and has been of 
great utility to all succeeding historians. The author having 
been personally concerned in all the transactions which he re- 
lated, and his veracity unquestionable, his writings are consid- 
ered as entitled to unlimited confidence. His narrative con- 
tains an interesting account of the manners and customs of the 
aboriginal tribes, with which he had made himself acquainted, 
and his writings will be read with profit by all who feel an in- 
terest in the subject, and have a relish for simplicity and truth. 
During the same year he was again sent to England as agent 
for the colony. In the year 1625 he was elected one of the 
five assistants in the colonial government, in which office he 
was continued till 1633, when he was elected governor of the 
colony for one year. From his activity, fortitude and perse- 
verance, Mr. Winslow was well qualified to conduct enter- 
prises and trading voyages, which he willingly performed for 
the benefit of the company. He undertook excursions of traf- 
fic to Penobscot, Kennebec, and Connecticut rivers. In 1635, 
he accepted another mission to England, jointly for the colo- 
nies of Plymouth and Massachusetts. The subjects requiring 
this agency were the infringments made on the New England 
territories, by the French on the east, and the Dutch on the 
west; and, also, to answer complaints which had been made to 
the Government against the Massachusetts Qolony, by Thomas 
Morton, that miscreant, who, for his turbulent conduct at 
Mount Wollaston, had been twice expelled the country. It 
was in the execution of this mission that Mr. Winslow was 
subjected to the ignoble abuse and tyranny of Archbishop 
Laud, as recorded in the ecclesiastical history in this volume. 
When he returned to Plymouth, 1636, he was cordially re- 
ceived, and elected to the office of governor, but the year fol- 
lowing took his place among the magistrates. In 1643, the 
New England colonies united into a confederacy for mutual 
defence, when Mr. W. was chosen one of the commissioners 
in behalf of Plymouth, and was continued in that office three 
years, when in 1646 he was persuaded to undertake another 
embassy to England, to answer to the complaints of Samuel 
Gorton and others, who had charged the colonists with religious 
intolerance and persecution. At this period, the puritan inter- 
est in England was predominant, and governor Winslow being 



1655] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 93 

in high estimation for his intrinsic merit, by those in power, he 
was enabled to accomphsh the object in view, to universal sat- 
isfaction. He was now in great favor with Oliver Cromwell 
and his officers, and was invited to accept of employment in 
his service. Accordingly, in 1654, he received the appoint- 
ment of first commissioner, on the part of the commonwealth, 
to arbitrate and determine the value of the English ships seized 
and detained by the King of Denmark, in 1652. Governor 
Winslow had then, for 34 years, resided in an American colo- 
ny, a compeer with those puritan exiles and outcasts who were 
demed unworthy of consideration. The appointment there- 
fore, to the office of first commissioner in a concern of such 
magnitude, implies a high degree of confidence in the merit 
and character of governor Winslow by the Protector, and is a 
lasting monument to the honor of him on whom it was con- 
ferred. The last public service performed by governor Win- 
slow was in 1655, when he received from Cromwell the ap- 
pointment of commissioner, with two others, to superitend the 
operations of the Fleet and Army sent to the Spanish West 
Indies, under admiral Penn an.d General Venables. Having, 
on this service, been subjected to extraordinary fatigue and 
anxiety of mind, he was seized with a fever of the climate, to 
which he fell a sacrifice, on the 8th of May, 1655, aged 61. * 
His remains were committed to the deep with the honors of 
war, 42 guns being fired on the solemn occasion. 

The New England Memorial, and whole early history of our 
country, bear ample testimony to the energy, activity, and well 
directed exertions of governor Winslow. His efforts in behalf 
of the native Indians illustrate his benevolence and charity. 
When in England, he was indefatigable in the cause, em- 
ploying his interest and influence with members of Parliament, 
and other gentlemen of quality and fortune, for the promotion 
of the object of his pious sympathy. The result was, an act 
of Parliament, in 1649, incorporating a society in England for 
propagating the gospel among the Indians in New England. 
The commissioners of the United Colonies were constituted., a 
board of correspondents, and distributors of the money which 
was supplied in England, by charitable donations from all the 

* "The eighth of May, west from 'Spaniola's shore, 
God took from us our grand commissioner, . 
Winslow by name, a man in chiefest trust, 
Whose life was sweet and conversation just, 
Whose parts and wisdom most men's did excel, 
An honor lo his place, as all can tell." 



94 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 

cities, towns, and parishes in the kingdom. This society is 
still in existence, though the board of correspondents has been 
discontinued since our separation from Great Britain. His 
*'Good News from New-England " is a very rare work; the 
abridged copy in Purchase's Pilgrims being all that the Mas- 
sachusetts Historical Society could obtain for re-publication in 
their collections. His interesting account of the manners and 
customs of the aboriginal tribes, found in the appendix to Bel- 
knap's Biography, Vol. 2, cannot fail of being gratifying to the 
antiquarian. When the celebrated Roger Williams had be- 
come alienated from the favorable regards of his countrymen, 
and was reduced to extreme indigence, governor Winslow ex- 
tended to him the hand of charity, and afforded him relief by 
his advice and pecuniary contribution. " It pleased the father 
of mercies," said Mr. Williams, " to touch many hearts with 
relentings, among whom that great and pious soul, Mr. Wins- 
low, melted, and he kindly visited me at Providence and put 
a piece of gold into the hands of my wife for our supply." *^ In 
New England," says Dr. Holmes's American Annals," his 
name will never be forgotten. His portrait is an excellent 
painting; the eye is black and expressive, and the whole coun- 
tenance very interesting. The portrait is taken with whiskers. 
Josiah, son of Edward, is drawn without them. Beards were 
left off early in New England, and about the same time they 
were in the Old. 

In the year 1637, a valuable tract of land at a place called 
Green's harbor, at Marshfield, was granted to Mr. Winslow 
and others, who established themselves there as permanent 
settlers. Mr. Winslow erected a handsome dwelling-house, 
and called his seat Careswell, from a castle and seat in Staf- 
fordshire, England, as conjectured by Dr. Belknap. This seat 
received improvements from time to time, and continued in the 
Winslow family till within the last few years; and at that place 
will be found the sepulchre which contains the ashes of the 
honorable family. Governor Winslow had one child only, a 
son, Josiah, who sustained the office of governor of the colony 
from 1673 to 1680. His life and character will be given below. 
Edward Winslow had four brothers,* John, Kenelm, Gilbert, 
and Josiah, all of whom emigrated to the new colony; Gilbert 
in the Mayflower, John, the next year, in the Fortune. The 

* The following notice of the Winslow family was furnished by 
a lineal descendant of John Winslow : — 

John Winslow was the second son of Edward Winslow, of 
Droitwich, England, whose family consisted of five sons and three 



1655] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 95 

latter married Mary Chilton, and settled in Boston, where his 
descendants now reside. One of the brothers settled at Roch- 
ester, county of Plymouth, one at Harwich, Cape Cod, and 

daughters, viz. Edward, born 1595 — John, 1596 — Elynor, 1598 — 
Kenelm, 1599— Gilbert, 1600— Elizabeth, 1601— Magdalen, 1604— 
Josiah, 1605. 

John as is recorded in page 94, followed his brother Edward, and 
arrived at Plymouth in the Fortune in 1621. Gilbert who came in 
the Mayflower in 1620, it is said, by the tradition in the family, re- 
turned to England, and did not revisit New England. Kenelm and 
Josiah came over at later periods, but the date of their arrival is not 
known ; Josiah is supposed to have early removed to Duxbury, and 
from this branch is thought to be derived those of the name in 
Duxbury, Cape Cod, and Maine. Kenelm, or his son Kenelm, pur- 
chased a tract of land in Rhode Island, and the many branches of 
the family in that vicinity are, no doubt, descended from him. 

John Winslow, the next brother to Edward, was married in Ply- 
mouth, before 1627, to Mary Cliilton, daughter of James Chilton, 
one of the first emigrants in the Pilgrim. The tradition of the 
family, confirmed by a writing at the death of Ann Taylor, in 
1773, the last grand-child of John Winslow, is, that Mary Chilton 
" was the first female who set her foot on the American shore." 
This may refer to the landing at Cape Cod, where, as is mentioned 
by Belknap, " the women went ashore to wash their clothes ; " or, 
to the landing at Plymouth, which, is not known. John Winslow 
resided in Plymouth till about 1656. His children were mostly, if 
not all born there. There names are — John, (wives' names unkno'wn) 
— Sarah, married 1st, Miles Standish, Junr. who died in 1661 — no 
issue ; 2d, Tobias Payne of Boston, having issue by this marriage ; 
(this was the ancestor of the Payne family of Boston) 3d, Middlecot 
of Boston — Isaac, married Parnell — Susanna, married Robert La- 
tham — Benjamin, his birth recorded in Plymouth records, 1653 — 
Mary, born at Plymouth 1630, married Edward Gray, a merchant of 
Plymouth, 1650 — Joseph, no particulars of him known — Mercy, 
married Arthur Harris Samuel, died Oct. 14, 1680, supposed in Bos- 
ton — Ann, married Le Blond of Boston. 

John Winslow was by profession a merchant, was selectman in 
Plymouth, and held other ofliices. In 1661, with Boyes, Tyng and 
Brattle, he purchased the colony lands on the Kennebec River, and 
this is thought to be the beginning of the well known "Plymouth 
Company." In 1637, he sold a house in New or North street for 
£16. It is not known whether he resided here ; his place being in 
the North part of Ancient Plymouth, called " Plain Dealing*" This 
estate was sold to his son-in-law Edward Gray, about the time of 
his removal to Boston, and, by the latter, disposed of to the colony 
in ^662 ; who purchased it as a residence for governor Prince. 
Mary, wife of Edward Gray, died in 1663, leaving, as is supposed, 
two or three daughters and one son ; John Winslow died in Boston 



96 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 

one at Portsmouth, N. H. There were also three sisters, Ely- 
nor, EUzabeth, and Magdalen. Whether either of these ac- 
companied their brothers to this place is uncertain. In the 

in 1674, aged 78 years ; Mary Winslow, his wife, died in Boston in 
1678. Two of their grand-daughters were Mercy Harris, and 
Desire Gray (born 1651); the latter of whom was married to 
Nathaniel Southworth 1671. Mr. Southworth bought the estate 
of "Plain~Dealing"in 1677, but in after years removed to Middle- 
borough and there died, leaving three sons and several daughters. 

John Winslow, by will, March 30, 1673, gives his brother Josiah 
£20 ; his 'kinsman,' meaning his nephew, Josiah, governor of New 
Plymouth, £20; his grand-child Susanna Latham £30; to the 
others of his daughter Latham's children £5 each ; to the children 
of Edward Gray, by his daughter Mary Gray, £20 a-piece ; to his 
grand-child Mercy Harris £5 ; to William Payne, son of his daugh- 
ter Sarah Middlecot, £50 ; to Parnell Winslow, daughter of his son 
Isaac, £50; to the children of his sons Edward and Joseph £5 
each ; the bulk of his estate is devised to his wife Mary, and the 
house and gardens, at her death, to his eldest son John. The In- 
ventory of his estate was £2,946 14 0. Mary Winslow, by will, 
31st July, 1676, recognises six children as then living; viz. John, 
Edward, Joseph, Samuel, Susanna Latham, and Sarah ; and three 
grand-children — Mary Pollard, Mercy Harris, and Susanna Latham. 
From the eldest son John, (through John son of the latter,) it is sup- 
posed that the family of the late General John Winslow of Boston 
is descended. 

Edward, the fourth son, it is thought, had a first wife in Plymouth 
before he left that place. His second wife was Elizabeth Hutchin- 
son, daughter of Ann Hutchinson, celebrated in the history of Mas- 
sachusetts for her religious zeal, persecution, banishment, and tragi- 
cal death in 1643, (being slain by the Indians with her family of 16 
persons, except one daughter beyond New Haven). Edward Wins- 
low died in Boston in 1662, aged 48 years ; his wife Elizabeth, in 
1728, aged 89. The deaths of the other children of John Winslow, 
except Samuel, who died in 1680, are not known. The children of 
Edward and Elizabeth were, Edward and four daughters, of whom 
Susanna married an Alden, supposed son of John Alden, command- 
er of the Province Sloop (who being accused of witchcraft during 
the witch mania of 1692, suffered imprisonment 15 weeks in Bos- 
ton). Another daughter, Mrs. Ann Taylor, died in Milton in 1773, 
aged 94 — and was the last surviving grand-child of John Winslow 
and Mary Chilton. 

Edward, son of Edward and grandson of John, was born in 1669 ; 
married Hannah Moody, daughter of Rev. Joshua Moody (minister 
of the old church in Boston, a zealous opponent of the witch mania, 
and who suffered for it by being obliged to leave his church). Ed- 
ward Winslow had a family of nine'sons and two daughters. His 
eldest son Joshua, and youngest, Isaac, were two of the principal 



1656] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 97 

Winslow family the real estate was inherited by the sons, and 
the personal by the daughters, many of whom were from ne- 
cessity obliged to dispose of valuable articles out of the family, 
as diamond rings, silver salvers, silver skillets, and other arti- 
cles of plate. The following commission was presented to the 

merchants in Boston, from 1730 to 17G8. One of his sons, John, 
also lived in Boston till 1775 and moved to Dunstable, where he 
died in 1788, aged 88. 

Two of his sons, William and Samuel, were in the commissariat 
department at the siege of Louisburg in 1745, and both died there : 
some of their descendants arc now (1835] living in Boston. The 
youngest daughter of Edward Winslow, by a 2d wife, Elizabeth, 
married Richard Clark, an eminent merchant of Boston ; and the 
daughter of the latter married John S. Coplej^, the celebrated paint- 
er ; their descendants are in England, Canada, and Boston. Edward 
Winslow was a gold-smith ; he was also Colonel of the Boston Re- 
giment, and Sheriff of the County of Suffolk ; from about 1722 to 
1742, his residence was in State street, the estate which is now the 
TremontBank. He died in Boston in 1753, aged 84. 

Joshua Winslow, great-grand-son of John and Mary Chilton, 
married Elizabeth Savage, and had a numerous family, (16 children.) 
Died October, 1767. Isaac Winslow, brother of the aforesaid, mar- 
ried Lucy Waldo, daughter of Brigadier Samuel Waldo ; had re- 
tired from business and lived at his seat in Roxbury : his second 
wife was Jemima Dubuc. He had by the first wife 11 children, 
and two by the last. He was a loyalist, having been appointed a 
mandamus counsellor in 1774. He died in New York in 1777. — ^ 
His descendants are principally in Boston, but many also in Eng- 
land. 

Edward, the eldest son of Joshua, and great-great-grand-son of 
John and Mary Chilton, was an Episcopal clergyman, settled at 
Braintree ; he was a loyalist, and died in New York about 1780. — 
From him are descended those of the name in North Carolina. 
Joshua, a younger brother, was a merchant, married a daughter of 
Commodore Loring, and died in Boston in] 1775. His descendants 
are all in England. John w^as also a loyalist, and died in New York 
iij 1781, leaving no children living. 

The daughters of Joshua Winslow first named, were mostly mar- 
ried, and, excepting the eldest, Margaret, died without leaving chil- 
dren living. 

Margaret married Colonel Benjamin Pollard, Sheriff of SuffoLk, 
and many of their descendants are now living in Boston. Isaac, 
the youngest, born in 1743. was educated for a profession, but aban- 
doned this and became a merchant. His first wife was a Sparhawk, 
daughter of the clergyman, of Salem ; his second wife was Mary 
Davis, daughter of Benjamin Davis of Boston, by whom he had six 
sons and two daughters. He died in Boston in 1793. His descend- 
ants are now in Boston, New York, and South Carolina. 
9 



93 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 

Pilgrim Society in 1831, by Mr. Pelham Winslow, late of Bos- 
ton, a lineal descendant of Governor Winslow. This curious 
document is peculiarly interesting to the antiquarians, and par- 
ticularly valuable as relating to governor Winslow. It is 
written in a beautiful hand on parchment, which is pasted on a 
wooden back, and the whole enclosed in a frame 3 feet by 2 
feet 2 inches. There are some defects in this copy which re- 
quire explanation. The brackets of this form [ ] enclose 
those words which are not perfectly distinct in the original, but 
about which there is little doubt. The blanks denote that words 
formerly written are illegible. It will be observed, that the 
parts so obscured are small in amount, and that the sense is 
not much affected by their loss. The words "Oliver Lord 
Protector," with which the Instrument commences, are written 
in large German Text letters, the first letter '^ O " being much 
larger than the others, and enclosing a bust of Cromwell. A 
border runs along the top of the Instrument, in which are re- 
presented two crosses and a harp, each encircled by a wreath of 
flowers, and intended, apparently, as emblems of England, 
Scotland, and Ireland. The Great Seal of England, originally 
affixed to this instrument is wanting. The signature cannot be 
discerned by looking directly upon the surface of the parch- 
ment, but by turning it to the light, and looking obliquely, the 
forms of the letters " Oliver P." may be easily traced, although 
not any of the ink remains. The word Protector was probably 
not written in full, but expressed by the simple initial P. in the 
same manner as the royal R. is used. The bracket at the end 
of the last line marks the place of a word, in the original, 
which cannot be made out. 

Although this instrument was written on parchment, the let- 
ters are so obscured by the lapse of one hundred and eighty- 
one years, that no one could be found willing to decypher it, 
till recently the Rev. W. P. Lunt has effected the difficult task 
in a very satisfactory manner, and it is now, for the first time, 
presented to the public. • 



1^55] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 99 

COMMISSION 

FROM 

OLIVER CROMWELL 

TO 

GOVERNOR EDWARD WINSLOW. 

OLIVER LORD PROTECTOR 
Of the Commonwealth of England, Scotland, and Ireland, 
and the Dominions thereto belonging, and the Lords, the States 
Generall of the United Provinces respectively. To all and Sin- 
gular, to whome these presents shell come, or whome they shall 
any way touch or concerne, Greeting. Whereas in the twen- 
tie-eight article of the Treatie of Peace lately made and con- 
cluded betwixt us the said Lord Protector of the Common- 
wealth of England, Scotland and Ireland, on the one parte, 
and us the said Lords the States Generall of the United Prov- 
inces, on the other, It is mutually accorded and agreed upon, 
as follows, viz : 

That Restitution shall be made of all and singular the Eng- 
lish Shipps and Goods seized and detained within the Domin- 
ions of the King of Denmarke, since the eighteenth day of 
May in the year one Thousand Six Hundred fift^^ and Two, and 
remaining yet in specie, together with the true and just price 
of such as are sold, imbezilled or otherwise disposed of within 
ffourteene dayes after the Arrival of the Merchants and Masters 
interested therein, or their assignes for the receiving of them 
— and also that Dammages be given for the losses sustained by 
the Enghsh by reason of the said detention, according to what 
shall be arbitrated and awarded by Edward Winslow, James 
Russell, John Beex, William Vander Cruyssen, Arbitrators 
indifferently chosen as well on the parte of his Highnesse, as 
the said States Generall (the forme or Instrument of which ar- 
bitration is already agreed upon) to examine and determine the 
demands of the Merchants, Masters, and owners to whom the 
said Shipps, Goods and Dammages appertaine, which Arbitra- 



100 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 

tors are to meet at Goldsmith's Hall here in London the Twen- 
tie Seventh of June next, Old Stile or sooner if it may be, and 
shall the same day, make solemne oath before the Judge of the - 
High Court of Admiraltie of England That they will pro- 
ceede without respect or relation had to either State or any par- 
ticular interest whatsoever: and moreover the foresaid Arbi- 
trators shall from the ffirst day of August next unless they 
agree upon sentence sooner be shult up in a Chamber by them- 
selves without fire, candle, meat, drink or any other refresh- 
ment till such time as they come to an Agreement concerning 
the matters referred to them. And the sentence which they 
shall award shall be Obligatorie to both parties: And the States 
Generall of the United Provinces doe firmly oblige themselves 
by these presents to execute or performe the same, as alsoe 
lo pay such summe of moneyes here at London as the said Ar- 
bitrators shall adjudge to be paid for the use of the said Own- 
ers to such person or persons as his Highnesse shall nominate 
within Tvventie ffive Dayes after Adjudication made. And the 
said States Generall shall within Two Dayes after the Instru- 
ments of Ratification of the said Articles of Peace are mutu- 
ally delivered, pay here at London the summe of ffive Thou- 
sand Pounds Sterling towards the charges of the Merchants, 
Masters or their Assignes for their journey to Denmarke, and 
the summe of Twentie Thousand Ryx Dollars to such persons 
as his Highnesse shall appoint within Six Dayes after the Ar- 
rivall of the said Persons there, for the use of the Merchants, 
Masters and Owners towards repairing their Shipps and fitting 
them for Sea, which said Summes shall be accounted in part of 
payment of such summe as shall be awarded by the said Arbi- 
trators — and that Caution and Securitie be given (the forme of 
which Caution is already agreed upon) by suflicient and re- 
sponsible men living here in London and binding themselves in 
an Obligation of One Hundred and ffburtie Thousand Pounds 
Sterling (which Obligation is to be delivered at the same time 
with the Instrument of Ratifications) that restitution shall be 
made according to the premisses, and that the submission and 
payment as well of the Twentie Thousand Ryx Dollars, as of 
such summe or other things as shall b* adjudged and deter- 
mined as aforesaid shall on their parte be duely performed. 
And if all and singular the Conditions be not really and efl?ec- 
tually performed on the parte of the Lords the States Generall 
in manner and time aforesaid, Then the said Obligation shall 
be forfeited, and the Said Summe of One Hundred and flx>urtie 
Thousand Pounds Sterling shall be paid to such person or per- 
sons as his Highnesse shall nominate to the end the Losses of 
the Merchants, Masters and interessed may be satisfied. 



1655] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 101 

Now We the said Lord Protector of the Common- 
wealth of England^, Scotland, and Ireland, and alsoe We the 
said Lords the States Generall of the United Provinces ratify- 
ing and confirming the said Article and all the matters and 
things therein Contained, and being respectively willing, cove- 
nanting and greeing that the same and every parte and clause 
thereof be duely and firmely held and observed bona fide, ac- 
cording to the nature and qualitie of contracts of [Princes] 
and Suvreaine States, without any manner of evasion or avoyd- 
ance for want of any Solemnities. And renouncing on both 
sides all subtilties and niceties of Law, to the end the prem- 
ises may have and take full effect according to the true mean- 
ing of the said article We the said Lord Protector for 
our parte, and We the said Lords the States Generall afore- 
'said for our parte have by one unanimous Consent nominated 
and appointed, and doe by these presents nominate and appoint 
Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex, William Vander 
Cruyssen to be Arbitrators Commissioners full and absolute 
Judges to receive, heare, examine, and by all due wayes and 
meanes to determine and give judgment upon all and singular 
the complaints and demannds of all and every the Merchants, 
Masters, Owners, and interessed in all or any Shipps, Vessells, 
Tackle, Apparell, furniture, provisions, wares, goods and other 
things whatsoever at any time arrested or detained within any 
of the Territories or Dominions of the King of Denmarke 
since the Eighteenth Day of May One Thousand Six Hun- 
dred ffifty and Two, whereof mention is made in the Bills of 
the Merchants exhibited in March 1651 and pertaineing con- 
signed or belonging to any of the People of the Commonwealth 
of England, Scotland and Ireland, or any of the Dominions 
thereto belonging, and We the said Lord Protector and 
alsoe We the said Lords the States Generall of the United 
Provinces doe joyntly and unanimously commit and by these 
presents give unto the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, 
John Beex, and William Vander Cruyssen full power and au- 
thoritie to convene and assemble together upon the Twentie 
seaventh day of June next ensuing old stile in the cittie of 
London in or at the Hall or Place in the said cittie called 
Goldsmith's Hall who being there assembled shall sweare and 
take a solemne oath before the Judges of the High Court of 
Admiraltie of England who are by the said Lord Protector au- 
thorised by these presents to administer the said oaths and re- 
quired and enjoy ned duely to attend at the said Goldsmith's 
Hall upon the said Twentie Seaventh day of June for the min- 
istration of the sUid oaths accordingly. That they and everie 
9 * 



102 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1655 

of them shall in their examining hearing and determining of 
the said premisses and matters by these presents to them com- 
mitted renounced and sett aside all partialitie favor and affec- 
tion in relation to either or any of the said States, or any par- 
ticular interests, and proceede impartially to the searching out 
of the truth and summary determining and assessing of the 
rights interests and just dammages in all and everie the de- 
mannds aforesaid, and being sworne the said Edward Winslow, 
James Russell, John Beex, and William Vander Cruyssen shall 
forthwith enter upon and take cognisance of all such Com- 
plaints and Demannds as shall be on the behalf of any of the 
People of the said Commonwealth of England, Scotland and 
Ireland &c. produced or offered touching any Shipps or Ves- 
sells whatsoever and all manner of Merchandize Consigne- 
ments Goods or any other things seised, [imbarged] or de- 
tained as aforesaid. And also all and singular shall be 
produced on the other parte by way of defence, diminution or 
payment of the said demands. And shall either by Oath, or 
without Oath or by Instruments documents or any other Evi- 
dence whatsoever such as they shall find requisite and condu- 
cible to this purpose examine the truth of all and everie the 
said Complaints and Demannds, and the true and just value of 
all and singular such Shipps and Vessells, Tackle furniture 
freight Provisions Merchandize goods or other things and all 
and everie the Dammages sustained by the said seisures and 
Detentions by losse of the said Shipps Vessells and freight 
thereof, and alsoe by the losse and damages of the said 
goods, Wares, Merchandize or otherwise respectively — And 
the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex and 
William Vander Cruyssen are hereby impowered enabled and 
authorized to ascertaine the said Premisses and everie of them 
and to liquidate assesse and tax the dammages for all and sin- 
gular the said premisses, and to arbitrate and adjudge the same 
according as they shall hold just and meete and to pronounce 
and publish in writing under their Hands and Scales their finall 
judgment which said judgment pronounced and published shall 
be binding and obligatory to both parties without any further 
review appeale or reclamation of any partie whatsoever — And 
The said Lords the States Generall by these presents 
binde and oblige themselves effectually and [really] to per- 
forme the same, and to pay such summe of moneyes as shall 
be soe adjudged and arbitrated to be paid for the said damma- 
ges and premisses within Twentie ffive days next immediately 
following after the publishing, of the said final judgment and 
arbitration and the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John 



1655] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 103 

Beex and William Vander Cruyssen are hereby authorised and 
required to convene and assemble at the said Goldsmith's Hall 
and procede upon the said [premisses de die] in diem without 
intermitting any day after their first meeting upon the Twentie 
Seaventh day of June (the Lord's dayes commonly called Sun- 
dayes only excepted) and to the end the said Edward Wins- 
low, James Russell, John Beex and William Vander Cruys- 
sen may not long procrastinate the said matters to them com- 
mitted or breake off abruptly without coming to any certaine 
and final Judgment upon the said premisses It is accorded 
AND concluded as well on the parte of the Lord Protector as 
the Lords the States Generall of the United Provinces, That 
if the said Edward Winslow, James Russell, John Beex and 
William Vander Cruyssen shall not agree and publish their 
finall judgment upon the premisses before the ffirst day of Au- 
gust they shall be shutt upp in the said Goldsmith's Hall in a 
roome by themselves without fire, candle, meat drinke or other 
refreshment, untill they shall agree and publish in writing un- 
der their Hands and Scales their finall judgment and determi- 
nation of and upon the premisses which 
said finall Judgment and determination soe to be made after 
their such shutting upp shall neverthelesse be as firm [valide] 
and binding as if it had been made before their such shutting 
upp as aforesaid to all intents [constructions] and purposes — 
In Witness of all and singular which are for the surer per- 
formance of the premisses, without any manner of 

and cavillation the said Lord Protector and the said Lords 
the States Generall have agreed that Two partes of this In- 
strument word for word shall be made after the manner of an 
Indenture And that the said Lord Protector for the 
thereof for his parte shall %ause theGreate Scale of England to 
be affixed unto the one parte thereof and the said Lords the 
States Generall of the United Provinces shall cause their Greate 
Scale to be affixed to the other; And accordingly Wee the 
said Lord Protector have signed the said one parte of this In- 
strument with our owne Hand, and have caused the Greate 
Scale of England to be affixed thereto, at Westminster, the 
nineteenth day of April in the yeare of our Lord one Thousand 
six Hundred ffifty and ffoure. 

OLIVER P. 



104 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1656 

1656. — This year, it was ordered that card playing should be 
punished by a fine of fifty shillings. Servants or children, play- 
ing at cards, dice, or other unlawful games, for the first offence 
to be corrected, by their parents or master, and for the second, 
to be publicly whipped. A law was passed by which a magis- 
trate, at his discretion, was authorized to inflict corporal punish- 
ment on all who denied the scriptures to be a rule of life. Vil- 
ifying any church or ordinance, was punished by a fine of ten 
shiUings; profaning the Lord's day, by a fine of ten shillings, 
or a public whipping; and neglecting to attend public worship 
on each Lord's day, by a fine of ten shillings. 

We have now to notice the lamented death of that hero of 
the Pilgrims, Capt. Miles Standish. He died at his residence in 
Duxbury, this year, at a very advanced age. Captran Standish 
was one of the companions of Carver, Bradford and Winslow, 
in the Mayflower, and shared in all the perils and privations to 
which they were subjected. He was one of the first settlers of 
Duxbury, but resided occasionally at Plymouth, especially in 
the winter months, and was the principal officer of the garrison 
,^at that place. In 1645, when war-like movements were com- 
menced against the Narragansets, Standish commanded the 
Plymouth troops. In 1653, when hostilities with the Dutch at 
Manhattan were apprehended, a council of war was appointed 
in Plymouth colony, of which Standish was one. Warrants 
were issued for the impressment of 60 men, and Standish was 
appointed to command them. It thus appears that he continued 
active in military employments, on every necessary occasion, 
until within three years of his death. He was frequently one 
of the board of assistants. After the loss of his wife in 1 620 — 1 , 
he soon married again. In the assignment of lands in 1623, 
the name of Mrs. Standish is on the iist; we know not the pre- 
vious name of the lady, but it appears she came in the ship Ann. 
In 1627, when the cattle were divided, he stands at the head of 
the third lot, with his wife * Barbara.' Charles, Alexander, 
and John, his children, are associated wifh him in that assign- 
ment. Alexander married Sarah Alden, daughter of John Al- 
den. Dr. Belknap informs us that Dr. Wheelock, President of 
Dartmouth College, and the father of Dr. Kirkland, President , 
of Harvard College, are descended from him. In the cabinet 
of the Pilgrim Society is the identical sword blade * used by 
Capt. Standish, the hilt being of more modern date, and also 
his iron pot, and pewter dish. 

* This relic is substantiated by unquestionable authority. 



1656] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 105 

The Rev. T. Alden, Jr. in his collection of Epitaphs, gives 
an amusing traditionary anecdote relative to the connubial pur- 
suits of Capt. Standish, and his friend John Alden. This anec- 
dote will be found entire under the name of John Alden, further 
on. In 1625, Captain Standish was sent an agent for the com- 
pany to England. The plague was then raging in London, and 
he met with difficulty in accomplishing his business ; but, the 
next year, he returned with goods for the colony, and brought 
the melancholy news, that Rev. Mr. John Robinson and Mr. 
Cushman were numbered with the dead. Capt. Standish was 
constantly elected one of the principal officers of the growing 
Commonwealth, and was one of the magistrates of the colony. 
When, in 1652, a council of war was appointed, vested with 
full power ' to issue warrants to press men and give commis- 
sions to chief officers,' the venerable Standish was one of the 
number. In 1654, Cromwell called on New-England for troops 
to subdue the Dutch of New-York, and Capt. Standish receiv- 
ed the command of those raised in Plymouth colony. A part 
of his commission was in these words. ' We having raised some 
forces, over which we do constitute our well beloved friend, 
Capt. Miles Standish, their leader and commander in chief ; 
whose fidelity and ability we have long experienced.' He was 
a brave and enterprising man, whose perseverance was equal to 
the performance of the boldest resolutions, which the mind can 
frame. It will appear, by the preceding pages, that on several 
occasions he was, through his great intrepidity, the deliverer of 
the people from the death, which the Indians threatened and 
were ready to execute. To the best interest of the colony he 
continued firm and steadfast to the last, and always managed 
his trust with great integrity and faithfulness. It is supposed, 
that he was buried at Duxbury, but the place of his grave is un- 
known. His house was consumed by fire sometime after his 
death, the exact time of which is uncertain. There are, in 
Plympton numerous descendants of Miles Standish. In his will, 
dated March 7th, 1655, he calls his son Alexander his eldest 
son, and names his sons in the following order, Alexander, Miles, 
Josiah, Charles. He mentions his wife Barbara, and his daugh- 
ter Lora. He gives his son Alexander his right to lands in 
England. It is possible that his sons Charles and John, men- 
tioned in Judge Davis's edition of the memorial, might have 
died young, as they are not mentioned in the will. 

Dr. Belknap gives us many respectable names of the honor- 
able house from which Miles Standish descended, beginning 
with Henry Standish, D. D., Bishop of St. Asaph, in the reign 
of Henry VIII. In the account of Duxbury, (Historical Col- 



106 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1657 

lections, vol. ii.) the name of the town is supposed to have been 
assumed by its first settlers, in allusion to their captain or leader. 
This appears questionable. The compliment would have been 
merited, but it is doubtful whether, among such a people, it 
would have been proposed or admitted. In * Jincient Vestiges,^ 
the manuscript in the note, p. 226 {Memorial) there is this re- 
mark; ' So late as 1707, I find that Sir Thomas Standish lived 
at Duxbury, the name of the family seat in Lancashire.' 

Captain Standish, it is said, was of small stature, but of a fiery 
temper, and perhaps no man ever possessed a more daring and 
intrepid spirit. The hill so conspicuous in the southeast part of 
the town of Duxbury, is called Captain's Hill or Mount, as it 
makes a part of the farm which was Captain Standish 's. 

1657.— On the 9th of March, William Bradford, governor of 
the colony, was called to join the congregation of the dead, in 
the sixty-ninth year of his age. This bereavement was pecu- 
liarly afflictive to the pilgrims, for he was one who shared large- 
ly in their perils, griefs, and toils, and was revered as the prop 
and glory of the colony. He was born in England, in 1588. Both 
his parents dying while he was in early youth, he was left to the 
protection of his grand-parents, and, after them, his uncles. His 
patrimony was large, but his station in life was amongst the yeo- 
manry, and he was bred to agriculture. The early loss of his pa- 
rents probably gave a serious cast to his mind, and he devoted all 
his leisure time to the reading of the scriptures; and, notwith- 
standing the opposition and angry remonstrances of all his rela- 
tions, this experienced youth embraced the doctrines, which 
were taught by the venerable Chfton, and afterwards by Robinson 
and became one of their most devoted followers. He was a zeal- 
ous advocate for the removal of the company to America, and was 
a passenger in the Mayflower. On their arrival at Cape Cod 
harbor, his wife unfortunately fell overboard, and was drowned 
in his absence. On the death of governor Carver, although 
only thirty-two years old, and confined at the time by sickness, 
he was unanimously elected his successor, as governor of the 
colony. He conducted the affairs of the colony, for the great 
part of the time, as chief, and two or three years as second 
magistrate, with consummate prudence and ability, for a period 
of more than thirty-one years. ' In the transactions with the 
Indians, he was strictly just; and after those unavoidable spark- 
lings, which the neighborhood of two races of men, like the col- 
lision of flint and steel, are sure to strike out at first, the ani- 
mosities, which vicinage engendered, were allayed, and he pre- 
served the relations of peace unbroken. His mingled system 
of mildness and energy conciliated their affections, and extorted 



1657] HISTORY ©F PLYMOUTH. 107 

their respect. When necessary, he alarmed their fears. When 
the emblematic defiance of the Sachem of the Narragansetts 
was conveyed in the shape of a bundle of arrows, bound to- 
gether by the skin of a serpent, he answered it promptly, by 
sending back the skin filled with powder and bullets.' — (See 
page 45 of this vol.) He soon understood all the peculiarities 
of their simple characters. His sagacity in detecting, and his 
energy in overcoming the designs of the factionists, were on 
every occasion most happily displayed. He was, at an early 
period, aware of the danger of supplying the Indians with fire- 
arms, and warned his countrymen against putting such formi- 
dable instruments into their hands. "The natives, " he observed, 
" were all provided with muskets, powder and shot, and were so 
well skilled in their use as even to keep the English in awe, 
and give the law to them when they pleased. They have flints, 
screw plates and moulds for shot, and can mend and new stock 
their pieces almost as well as Englishmen. Thus like madmen, 
we put them in the way to kill us with our own weapons. They 
know their advantage so well, they scruple not to say that they 
can, when they please, drive the English away, or kill them." 
It is to be observed, that the natives were supplied with 
arms and amniunition chiefly by the people of Massachusetts 
colony. Although governor Bradford's early pursuits were un- 
favorable to the cultivation of learning, yet he applied himself 
with great diligence to the study of the ancient languages, both 
Greek and Latin. Of the Hebrew his knowledge was intimate, 
and the French and Dutch he spoke with ease. He read much 
on subjects of history and philosophy. In theology he was 
deeply versed, and few there were, who could contend with 
him successfully in a polemical dispute. He wrote considera- 
ably ; the loss of his valuable manuscript history of the colony 
to 1646 can never be supplied. As chief magistrate, he was 
compefled to deal with many turbulent spirits, yet he seldom fail- 
ed to enforce respect both to the laws and the magistrates, rather 
by appealing to the sense of shame and fear of self-degradation, 
than by the exercise of the penal authority of the government. 
His faith endured to the last, and he died full of hope ; conversing 
with his friends on the day of his death, he spoke with the cheer- 
fulness of a saint. ^' God," said he, " has given me a pledge of 
my happiness in another world, and the first fruits of eternal 
glory. " ' Governor Bradford, ' says Dr. Cotton Mather, ' died 
lamented by all the colonists of New England, as a common fath- 
er of them all.' On the 14th August, 1624, governor Bradford 
was married to Mrs. AHce Southworth, a lady of extraordinary 
capacity and worth. There was an early attachment, it is said, 



108 HISTORY OF PfcYMOUTH. [1657 

between governor Bradford and Mrs, Southworth, and their mar- 
riage was prevented by her parents on account of the inferior 
circumstances or rank of Mr. Bradford. Being now a widow- 
er, he by letters to England made overtures of marriage to 
Mrs. Southworth, who was then a widow. The proposal was 
accepted, and with a generous resolution she embarked in the 
ship Ann, in 1623, to meet her intended partner, who, she well 
knew, could not leave his responsible station in the infant set- 
tlement. Her two sons, Thomas and Constant Southworth, 
came over with her. This lady was well educated and brought 
considerable property into the country. She died in 1670, aged 
80 years, and was honorably interred on the 29th March, at New 
Plymouth. It is said in the old colony records, ' She was a 
godly matron, and much loved while she lived, and lamented, 
though aged, when she died.' Mrs. Bradford was highly eulo- 
gized by Elder Faunce, for her exertions in promoting the liter- 
ary improvement and the deportment of the rising generation, 
according to accounts he had received from some of her contem- 
poraries. Governor Bradford was without doubt interred on our 
burial hill, but the antiquarian, who visits the place, must be im- 
pressed with melancholy regret, that th'e remains of one so emi- 
nently meritorious as was this excellent man, should be suffered 
to moulder in the dust without a monumental stone to designate 
the spot. There is at each of the graves of the two sons, an or- 
dinary stone, but the grave of the illustrious sire is level with the 
earth, and known only by tradition. Even at this remote period, 
it would be honorable and a blessing to posterity, could a suitable 
monument be erected, that future inquiring antiquarians might 
know where to resort to lean over the remains and meditate on 
the virtues and glorious deeds, of one of the principal founders 
of our nation. Greatly should we rejoice to see the venerated 
name, which has, for two centuries, been veiled in temporary 
oblivion, brought forth to immortal memory by a grateful pos- 
terity. We have little doubt but this desirable object might be 
effected, were a subscription to be put in circulation for that 
purpose. The family bible of governor Bradford is still in ex- 
istence. It is in the possession of Mr. Asa Waters, of Stough- 
ton, who exhibited it in this town, in October, 1831. The bible 
was printed in the year 1592, and contains a written list of the 
names of the family of Elisha Bradford, who was the grand-son 
of Governor William Bradford. That this ancient and honor- 
able family may be traced in all its branches to the present gen- 
eration, the following genealogical detail is here recorded. 
Governor Bradford married, for his first wife, Dorothy May, by 
whom he had one son, whose name was John, but there is no 



1657] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 109 

account that he was ever married, or with certainty when he 
died. There is a tradition that he was lost at sea, on his passage to 
England. The maiden name of the governor's second wife, Mrs. 
Southworth, was Alice Carpenter, by whom he had three chil- 
dren, William, Mercy, and Joseph. Mercy married Benjamin 
Vermage, mentioned in the appendix to governor Winthrop's 
History, vol. ii. p. 372. WilHam Bradford, son of the govern- 
or, obtained high distinction in the colony, being elected an 
assistant soon after the decease of his father, and chief military 
commander. He had the title of major, and was an active offi- 
cer in Philip's war. He married for his first wife Alice Rich- 
ards, who died in 1671, aged 44, by whom he had four sons, 
John, William, Thomas, and Samuel. Thomas moved to Con- 
necticut, Samuel settled at Duxbury, from whom the Bradfords 
in that place descended. William Bradford's second wife was 
the widow Wiswell, by whom he had on-e son, Joseph, who moved 
to Connecticut. His third wife was Mrs. Mary Holmes, widow 
of the Rev. John Holmes, the second minister of Duxbury, by 
whom he had four sons, Israel, Ephraim, David, and Hezekiah. 
She died in 1704. When the colonial Government terminated 
in 1692, Major Bradford was deputy governor, and afterwards 
was chosen counsellor of Massachusetts. He died February 
20th, 1703, aged 79 years. In his will dated Jan. 29th, 1703, 
he provides for nine sons and six daughters, by which it appears 
that he had fifteen children, a noble bequest to the new territory. 
The late aged Ebenezer Cobb,* of Kingston, remembered the 
funeral of deputy governor Bradford. The public road being 
obstructed by a deep snow, the corpse was brought from the 
family residence near Jones's river along the sea-shore, it being 
the express desire of the deceased to be buried near the body 
of his father. His tombstone indicates the spot where the gov- 
ernor was probably interred: the father lying on the east side 
of the son, while the other son Joseph, lies in another row 
northerly. John, the eldest son of the deputy governor, is fre- 
quently mentioned in the Plymouth records as selectman and 
on various committees; and in 1692, he was deputy, or repre- 
sentative from Plymouth to the general court. The governor's 
son Joseph, lived near Jones's river, had a son named Elisha, 

* Mr. Ebenezer Cobb was a native of Plymouth, but for many years 
a resident of Kingston, where he died December 8, 1801, aged 107 
years, ei^ht months, and six days. He was remarkable for facetious- 
ness of disposition, and for a retentive memory. He well remem- 
bered that, when a boy, he had a personal knowledge of Peregrine 
White. 

10 



tllO HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. [1657 

"vvho had several children. He died July lOth, 1715, in the 
eighty-fifth year of his age, and was buried at the Burial-hill at 
Plymouth. Major John Bradford, son of Major William, mar- 
ried Mercy Warren, daughter of Joseph Warren. Their chil- 
dren were John, Alice, Abigail, Mercy, Samuel, Priscilla, and 
Wilham. He died December 8th, 1736, in the eighty-fourth 
,year of his age. Mercy, his widow, died 1747, in her ninety- 
fourth year. Lieut. Samuel Bradford, son of the aforesaid Major 
John Bradford, married Sarah Gray, daughter of Edward Gray, 
of Tiverton, Rhode Island, and grand-daughter of Edward 
Gray of Plymouth. Their issue were John, Gideon, William, 
who died young, Mary, Sarah, William, Mercy, who died young, 
Abigail, Phebe, and Samuel. The aforesaid Lieut. Samuel 
Bradford, lived and died in Plympton, 1740, aged fifty-six years. 
His widow married William Hunt, of Martha's Vineyard, 
and died in 1770. The Hon. William Bradford, late of Bristol, 
Rhode Island, was a son of the above Samuel Bradford. He 
was born at Plympton, Nov. 4th, 1729, and died in July, 1808. 
He was deputy governor of Rhode Island, speaker of the house 
of representatives, and a member of congress. His residence 
was near the celebrated Mount Hope, and the story of King 
Philip, the aboriginal proprietor, was familar to his mind. His 
descendants are numerous. Gideon Bradford, son of the above 
Lieut. Samuel Bradford, married Jane Paddock, and had issue, 
Levi, Joseph, Sarah, Samuel, Gideon, Calvin, and Jenney. 
He died in Plympton, 1793, in his seventy-fifth year. Levi, 
son of the above Gideon, married Elizabeth Lewis. Their chil- 
dren were Lewis, Joseph, Levi, Daniel, Ezra, Elizabeth, and 
Sarah. He died in Homer, N. Y. 1812, aged seventy-nine 
years. 

Colonel Gamaliel Bradford descended from the first Samuel. 
He lived at Duxbury, and commanded a regiment of continen- 
tal troops during the revolutionary war. His son Gamaliel, 
entered the Americaii army when a youth, and was an officer 
at the close of the war. He possessed a patriotic spirit and a 
noble mind, and was distinguished in various pursuits in private 
life. Another son of Gamaliel is the present Alden Bradford, 
for several years secretary of our commonwealth, and the au- 
thor of a valuable history of Massachusetts, and the president 
of the Pilgrim Society. 

The first notice of horses on record is in 1644, when a mare, 
belonging to the estate of Stephen Hopkins, was appraised at 
^6 sterling. In 1647, in the inventory of Thomas Bliss, a colt 
was appraised at X4 sterling. In Joseph Holliway's inventory, 
the same year, one mare and a year old colt were appraised at 



1657] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. III? 

jE14. In June, 1657, the colony court passed an act that every 
free-holder who kept three mares, and would keep one horse for 
military service, should be freed from all military service, train- 
ing and watching. While destitute of horses it was not uncom- 
mon for people to ride on bulls; and there is a tradition, that 
when John Alden went to Cape Cod to be married to Priscilla 
Mullens, he covered his bull with a handsome piece of broad- 
cloth, and rode on his back. On his return, he seated his bride 
on the bull, and led the uncouth animal by a rope fixed in the 
nose ring. This sample of primitive gallantry would ill com- 
pare with that of Abraham's servant, when, by proxy, he gal- 
lanted Rebekah on her journey, with a splendid retinue of 
"-damsels and servants seated on camels, Isaac going out to 
meet her. (Gen. ch. 24.) Had the servant employed bulls, 
instead of camels, it may be doubted whether Rebekah would 
have been quite so prompt in accepting his proposals. As soon 
as the question was put, Rebekah said '* I will go." 

In 1665 the colony court made^ a present of a horse to King 
Philip. It would gratify curiosity to know in what manner King 
Philip, and the natives, in general, were affected by the first sight 
of horses and cows; their minds must have been overwhelmed 
with astonishment to see men riding on horses and bulls. 

Trouble with the Quakers. This year was rendered memor- 
able by an unhappy commotion and personal collision with a 
new sect of rehgionists, styled Quakers. This controversy 
would seem to have been engendered by a spirit of fanaticism, 
approaching to frenzy, on one part, and of pious zeal, allied to 
bigotry, on the other. Our puritan fathers, having experienced 
the bitterness of intolerance and persecution from tyrants, were 
willing that a measure of the same spirit should be construed 
into the rights of conscience, and become a duty when exer- 
cised by themselves. That confiding temper in the purity of 
their own sentiments, and religious ardor for the glory of God, 
could not brook the smallest deviation from the course, which 
they deemed strictly orthodox; and their jealous apprehensions 
of heresy led them, on some occasions, to acts inconsistent with 
their professed principles of Christian liberty and charity. But 
palliating circumstances in the case must not be overlooked. 
In their religious and local concerns, the puritans, about this 
period, were reduced to a deplorable condition. Not a few 
of their society had manifested a coolness and indifference to 
the stated preaching of the gospel by qualified clergymen, pre- 
ferring to exercise their own personal gifts. An alarming de- 
fect of reverence and support of ministers was spreading through 
other towns in the colony, and schisms in churches were not 



112 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1657 

unfrequent. No less than five distinguished ministers in the 
colony were obliged to separate from their societies for the want 
of support, and two othefs died, and all their places remained 
unsupplied about the same time. Three other parishes were 
also destitute. It was at this critical juncture that the vexatious 
intrusion of the quakers occurred, to their great annoyance. 
Not only were their tenets at first deemed exceedingly obnoxious, 
and even blasphemous, but the demeanor of some individuals of 
the sect was audacious and provoking beyond endurance. — 
' When the quakers appeared in New England,' says Hon. Mr. 
Baylies, ^ it was during their first effervesence ; the materials 
were still fermenting, and had not as yet worked off* the scum 
and the dregs, which all new religious sects are sure to bring 
up.' 

It was ordered by the court, that in case any shall bring in 
any quaker, ranter, or other notorious heretic, either by land or 
water, into any part of this government, he shall forthwith, upon 
order of any one magistrate, return them to the place from 
whence they came, or clear the government of them, on the 
penalty of paying a fine of 20s, for every week that they shall 
stay in the government, after warning. A more severe law 
was afterwards passed. '■ It is therefore enacted by the court 
and authority thereof, that no quaker, or person commonly so 
called be entertained by any person or persons within this gov- 
ernment, under penalty of £6 for every such default or be 
whipt.' 

On the 6th of October, 1657, Humphrey Norton, claiming to 
be a prophet, was summoned to appear at the court, and on ex- 
amination found guilty (according to the court record) of divers 
horrid errors. He was sentenced speedily to depart the gov- • 
ernment, and the under-marshal was required to take him into 
custody, and to conduct him to Assonet, near Rhode Island. 
* The spirit of Norton was not subdued, and he returned again 
into the Plymouth jurisdiction, accompanied by one John Rouse. 
These quakers appeared at the court in June, 1658, and were 
apprehended and committed to prison. When they were ex- 
amined before the court, Norton said sundry times to the gover- 
nor, 'Prince, thou lyest; Thomas, thou art a malicious man.' 
The conduct of Rouse was equally turbulent. They were re- 
manded, but in a short time were again brought before the court. 
Norton again abused the governor with much foul language, 
saying, ' Thy clamorous tongue I regard no more than the dust 
under my feet; and thou art like a scolding woman, and thou 
pratest and deridest me,' &c. 

Norton and Rouse were severally required, that, as they pro- 



1657] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 113 

fessed themselves to be subjects to the state of England, they 
should take an oath of fidelity to be true to that state, which 
they refused to do, saying they would take no oath at all. On 
this refusal they were sentenced to a whipping. This punish- 
ment was inflicted, for which the under-marshal required a fee. 
They refused to pay, and were again committed to prison, 
where they remained until they compromised with the marshal, 
and left the jurisdiction.* 

Norton afterwards addressed the governor by letter in such 
language as, ' Thomas Prince, thou hast bent thy heart to work 
wickedness, and with thy tongue hast set forth deceit; thou 
imaginest mischief upon thy bed, and hatchest thy hatred in thy 
secret chamber; the strength of darkness is over thee, and a 
malicious mouth hast thou opened against God and his anointed, 
and with thy tongue and lips hast thou uttered perverse things ; 
thou hast slandered the innocent, by railing, lying, and false ac- 
cusations, and with thy barbarous heart hast thou caused their 
blood to be shed,' &c. &c. — ^ John Alden is to thee like unto a 
pack-horse, where upon thou layest thy beastly bag; cursed 
are all they that have a hand therein; the cry of vengeance 
will pursue thee day and night.' After continuing in this strain 
at great length he closes thus, * The anguish and pain that will 
enter thy veins will be like gnawing worms lodging betwixt thy 
heart and liver. When these things come upon thee, and thy 
back is bowed down with pain, in that day and hour, thou shalt 
know to thy grief that prophets of the Lord God we are, and 
the God of vengeance is our God." Norton addressed a letter 
to John Alden, one of the assistants and a member of the. court, 
couched in language equally abusive as the above. 

If the primitive government of Plymouth rendered itself cen- 
surable for the rigor of its laws, and the cruelty, of the punish- 
ments inflicted on the quakers, their posterity have the consol- 
ing reflection, that among the honorable society of quakers at 
the present day, no one can be found that would give counten- 
ance to such outrageous conduct as that of Norton and Rouse; 
so on the other hand, may we safely vouchy that none among 
the descendants of the puritan fathers will pretend to find a jus- 
tification of the harsh measures prosecuted against them. Most 
happy is the day, when these opposing sects are harmoniously 
united in christian charity, and brotherly love; the quakers 
distinguished for benevolence, purity of morals, and peaceful 
demeanor, their friends for erudition, liberality of sentiment, 

*In our times we should think public v/hipping to be a sufficient 
punishment, without obliging the culprit to pay the whipper's fee. 
10* 



114 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 1657] 

christian knowledge and philanthropy. But the reader has not 
yet learnt the whole history of the quaker controversy. 

Several other disfranchising laws were passed by the Ply- 
mouth general court against these people. On the 8th of May, 
1659, five men and one woman were sentenced, according to a 
previous order of court, to banishment, to depart out of the 
jurisdiction by the 8th day of June, on pain of death; delaying, 
they were to be imprisoned, tried, and if found guilty of the 
breach of this law, were to be put to death. The following 
judicious observations are cited from Hon. F. Baylies, vol. ii. 
p. 38. 'The quakers who first appeared in the colony of Ply- 
mouth were not inhabitants, but came from abroad. Although 
they professed the principles of peace and benevolencCp yet 
they waged a furious war against a religion which was much 
endeared to the people whom they were endeavoring to pros- 
elyte; for which that people had suffered much, and were im- 
pressed with a strong conviction of its truth.' 

Their laws, their government, their forms of worship, all 
which they had been taught to venerate, and accustomed to 
love, were denounced in no very civil terms by strangers. 
Their magistrates and ministers were reviled in terms of inso- 
lent abuse; it is not surprising, therefore, that they should have 
attempted to check (what appeared to them to be) blasphemy 
and impiety. Although these new expounders of scripture styled 
themselves ' the prophets of God,' yet it was not an unnatural 
or strange belief, in that day, that they should have been re- 
garded as men ' possessed with demons.' ' To check their dis- 
orders, banishment was deemed the mildest punishment. Nor- 
ton was sent beyond the settlements, but on the next year he re- 
turned, in defiance of the government. It is not unlikely that 
the deportment of governor Prince to Norton was domineering 
and arrogant, for he detested schismatics, and hated those who 
despised and derided ' human learning.' Yet one far more in- 
dulgent than the governor, in the same station, must have been 
possessed of uncommon self-command, if he could have tolerated 
personal insults, and tamely have suffered himself to have been 
called a 'liar' and ' a malicious man,' while in the very exer- 
cise of his high authority on the judgment seat, and presiding 
in the court. Even in these times, under the system of tolera- 
tion, and with a mitigated penal code, ' contempt of court ' is 
deemed a high offence, and is punished accordingly. Still it is 
best that the hand of power should fall gently on all those who 
pretend (even if it be nothing but pretence,) to act under the 
impulse of religious feeling. The errors of honest and sincere 
zealots are to be excused, not punished, unless the order and 



1657] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 115 

peace of society are disturbed to such a degree, that the re- 
straint of the offender becomes an act of necessity.' 

During this high excitement in the colony, and the still greater 
in that of Massachusetts, Mr. Cudworth, Mr. Allerton, and some 
others, appeared in opposition to the measures- pursued against 
the quakers, in consequence of which they became so unpopu- 
lar that they were left out of their offices of magistrate.*' At 
length, the court were disposed to try the effect of a more con- 
ciliatory treatment. For the purpose of bringing the quakers 
to a sense of their mistakes, the laws were so far relaxed as to 
permit certain persons to attend their meetings, * to endeavor to 
reduce them from the error of their ways; ' this permission was 
given to Isaac Robinson, the son of the celebrated Leyden 
pastor, and three others. ' But,' says Mr. Baylies, ' the gov- 
ernment were not aware of their danger. The fanaticism of a 
new sect is always an overmatch for that which has been cooled 
and tempered by time.' Isaac Robinson, an excellent and sen- 
sible man, who had received the permission of the court to at- 
tend these meetings, instead of convincing the quakers of their 
errors, became self-convicted, and embraced many of their doc- 
trines, and consequently rendered himself so obnoxious, that he 
was dismissed from civil employment, and exposed to much cen- 
sure and some indignity. 

In 1660, the alarm not having entirely subsided, the court of 
Plymouth were induced to pass additional laws to stem the tor- 
rent of quakerism. All persons were now authorized to appre- 
hend such quakers, and to deliver them to the constables, that 
they might be carried before the governor or some magistrate. 
And to prevent their speedy passage from place to place, to 
* poison the inhabitants wuth their cursed tenets,' all persons 
were prohibited from supplying them with horses, on pain of 
forfeiture, and their own horses were also made liable to forfeit- 
ure. 

It was also enacted, that anyone who shall bring in any qua- 
ker or ranter, by land or water, into this government, viz., by 
being a guide to them or any otherwise, shall be fined, to the 
use of the government, the sum of £10 for every default. * If 
the quakers or such like vagabonds, shall come into any town of 
this government, the marshal or constable shall apprehend him 



* Captain Cudworth was tried for being- a manifest opposer of the 
law? of the government, and sentenced accordingly, to be disfran- 
chised of the freedom of the commonwealth, and deprived of his 
military command ; to which he submitted with dignified magnanim- 
ity. 



116 * HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. * [1657 

or them, and upon examination so appearing, he shall whip them, 
or cause them to be whipped with rods, so it exceed not fifteen 
stripes. It was also enacted that all persons permitting the 
quakers to hold meetings in their houses, on conviction before 
the general court, should be publicly whipped, or pay £5.' 

But I am exceeding my intended limits on this theme; and 
however interesting may be the sequel, I shall only add that ^ in 
a few years there appeared a revolution in the popular feeling, 
and Mr. Cudworth, Mr. Brown, and Isaac Robinson were restor- 
ed to favor,' under the administration of Governor Josiah Wins- 
low. 

The tragedy at Boston produced a deep sympathy for the suf- 
ferers, and when it was seen that the quakers could die for their 
faith, the people could not resist the belief that they were sin- 
cere.* 

'' The book of the General Laws and liberties of the inhabi- 
tants of the jurisdiction of New Plymouth, out of the records of 
the General Court, was lately revised and established and dis- 
posed into alphabetical order, and published by the authority of 
the General Court held at New Plymouth the 29th day of Sep- 
tember Anno Domini 1658." It was enacted 1658, that all op- 
posers of the laws of the colony, or who shall speak contemptu- 
ously of the laws, or of the true worship of God, or such as are 
judged by the court grossly scandalous, as liars, drunkards, &,c., 
shall lose the freedom of this corporation. 

It was, in the same year, enacted, 'that as in many towns the 
number of freemen was less than the number of inhabitants, 

* In July, 1656, Mary Fisher and Ann Austin, both of the denom- 
ination of quakers, arrived at Boston from Barbadoes, and about a 
month afterwards eight more came into that colony from Rhode 
Island. 

The first quakers who appeared in New England, arrived in July. 
The general court of Massachusetts considered them alike hostile 
to civil and to ecclesiastical order, and passed sentence of banishment 
on twelve persona of that sect, the whole number then in the colony. 
The most sanguinary laws were passed against the sect by the Mas- 
sachusetts general court, which may be found in Hutchinson, Hub- 
bard, and Hazard. In 1659, two men and one woman were tried 
before the general court of Massachusetts, and sentenced to die. 
The two men were executed, and the woman, Mary Dyer, was re- 
prieved, on condition of her departure from the jurisdiction in forty- 
eight hours : and if she returned, to suffer the sentence. She was 
carried, however, to the gallows ; and stood with a rope about her 
neck until the others were executed. This infatuated Avoman re- 
turned, and was executed in 1660. Many of these deluded people 
actually courted persecution. 



1658, 60] HISTORY or Plymouth. 117 

and as all had an equal right to vote, it may come to pass that 
very unfit and unworthy persons may be chosen that cannot an- 
swer the court's trust in such a place; that as all such as ma- 
gistrates and deputies, are to act in making of laws, and being 
assembled, the court in the first place take notice of their mem- 
bers, and if they find any unfit for such a trust, that they and 
the reason thereof be returned to the town from whence they 
were sent, that they make such choice of more fit and able 
persons to send in their stead as the time will permit.' This 
assumed right of expulsion of members would at the present 
day be deemed arbitrary, and meet the most decided opposition. 

The public officers were to be paid in corn for their services, 
and all corn delivered in to pay the current expenses of the 
country to bear one price. 

August 2lst, 1658. — Died William Paddy, aged 58 years. 

Mr. Paddy for several years was elected deputy to the gen- 
eral court of Plymouth, and was also a deacon of the church, 
and possessed considerable wealth. He sustained an irre- 
proachable character, was devoted to the best interests of the 
colony, and was useful in both church and state. He removed 
to Boston in 1651. He had two sons born in Plymouth, Thom- 
as and Samuel, but the name appears to be now extinct.* 

It was this year ordered that whosoever profaned the Lord's 
day by travelling, carrying burdens, &c. should be fined twenty 
shillings, or set in the stocks four hours. 

M. B. having been sentenced for telling a lie, the court hav- 
ing examined particulars, have cleared her, but desired Mr. 
Hatherly, from the court to admonish her to be wary of giving 
offence to others by unnecessary talking. J. W. to be sharply 
reproved for writing a note on common business on Lord's day. 
E. H. for telling a lie, and R. J. for neglecting public worship, 
fined ten shillings each. 

The court appointed Josiah Winslow and Constant South- 
worth, with the treasurer, to agree with workmen to erect a 
house of correction, to be added to the prison, fourteen feet in 
length, with a chimney to it. 

1660. — The council of war ordered, that during any appear- 

* A singular incident occurred at Boston, in the summer of 1830. 
Some workmen employed in removing the earth from the north side 
of the Old State House, dug up a tombstone, considerably broken, 
on one side of which was the following inscription : 

♦Here lyeth the body of Mr. William Paddy. Departed this life 
Angust 1658.' From the records it appears that he was one of the 
selectmen of Boston at the time of his death. 



118 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1661,62 

ance of danger, a military watch be kept in each town in the 
most convenient places for giving an alarm, and also to watch 
the sea coast and observe the motions of any ships that may 
appear. The firing of three muskets shall make an alarm in 
the night, and fires to be made where the alarm is given. The 
Dutch and French were to be considered as common enemies. 
The following instance of marriage may perhaps be ascribed to 
quaker influence. R. W. and M. C. for marrying disorderly, 
and without parent's consent, were sentenced to pay £10 fine, 
and be imprisoned during pleasure of court; and being desir- 
ous of being orderly married, v/ere accordingly, this 9th of 
March, 1660. E. M. for accompanying and countenancing 
the above mentioned persons, fined twenty shillings. R. B. 
summoned to appear to answer for speaking contemptuously of 
singing psalms, and was convicted of the fact, and promised 
that he would be warned of so doing for the future. The court 
sharply admonished him, and that he should acknowledge his 
fault, which he engaged to do, and was discharged. 

1661. — ^At the court which assembled in June, a loyal declar- 
ation was made in favor of King Charles II. who had been 
restored to the throne of his ancestors. 

R. Smith for lying concerning seeing a whale and other things, 
fined twenty shillings, A. Bessey for her cruel and unnatural 
practice towards her father-in law, G. Barlow, in chopping of 
him in the back, fined twenty shillings, or to be whipped. 

D. B. and M.. B., for the like towards their father-in-law, not 
in so high degree, both sentenced to sit in the stocks during 
the pleasure of court, which was performed. 

The colony during this year sold, for £400 sterling, their 
lands on Kennebec river, to Antipas Boyes, Edward Tyng, 
Thomas Brattle, and John Winslow, and they originated the 
celebrated Plymouth company. 

£60 was assessed for purchasing a place for the minister at 
Plymouth. 

1662. — S. H. for carrying a grist of corn from mill on Sun- 
day, fined 20 shillings, or to be whipped. 

W. F. for sufl^ering him^ to take it from the mill, fined 10 
shillings. 

William Randall for telling a lie, fined 10 shillings. 

Clark's island was now abandoned, and not improved by any 
one. 

Town expenses, £25. 5s. Sd. Ten pounds was assessed to 
procure bellows and tools for a smith, for the use of the town. 

Philip, sachem of Pokanoket, made his appearance at the 
court of Plymouth, and solicited the continuance of the amity 



1663] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 119 

and friendship which had existed between the government of 
Plymouth and his father (Massasoit) and brother. To that end 
he desired, for himself and his successors, that they might for- 
ever, remain subject to the King of England, his heirs and suc- 
cessors; and promised that he and his would truly and exactly 
observe and keep inviolate such conditions as had formerly been 
made by his predecessors; and particularly that he would not, at 
any time, needlessly or unjustly provoke or raise war with any 
of the natives; nor give, sell, or dispose of any lands to stran- 
gers, or to any others without their privity or appointment; but 
would in all things endeavor to live peaceably and inoffensively 
towards the English. The court expressed their willingness to 
continue the friendship ; and promised to afford the Indians 
such friendly assistance by advice and otherwise, as they justly 
might, and to require their own people at all times to maintain 
a friendly conduct toward them. The original name of Philip 
was Matacomet. Mather says, ' it was at this time that he de- 
sired an English name, and that the court named him Philip.' 
Judge Davis says, * After the death of Massasoit, about the year 
1656, his two sons, Wamsutta and Metacomet, came to the 
court at Plymouth, and professing great respect, requested 
that English names might be given them. Wamsutta, the eldest 
brother, was thereupon named Alexander; the youngest, Met- 
acomet was called Philip.' — JVote on Morton. The agreement 
in court was soon after the death of Alexander. — Holmes's ^n.* 

1663. — Mr. John Brown, who had frequently been an assist- 
ant in the government, having been elected in 1636, and contin- 
ued by successive elections to 1656, died this year at his resi- 
dence in Rehoboth. He was also one of the commissioners of 
the United Colonies from 1644 to 1655. James Brown, who was 
chosen an assistant in 1665, and lived at Swansey, was his son. 

' We find the same remark made respecting Mr. Brown as of 
Mr. Winslow and Captain Standish, that, while on their travels, 
they became casually acquainted with the refugees at Leyden, 
and were so attached to them, on acquaintance, as to unite 
themselves to their society. A connexion, thus formed and 
continued through so many difficulties, is alike honorable to all 
parties; we are led to infer, that there was something prepos- 
sessing in the deportment of the pilgrims, interesting and con- 
genial to generous minds.' 

* Some very interesting particulars respecting the subsequent 
conduct of these two Indians, and the orig^in of the memorable con- 
test, denominated Philip's war, may be found in Judge Davis's note 
in the Memorial; p. 287, and also in the appendix to this volume. 



120 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1664, 65 

Jan. 26. — ^There was a tremendous earthquake in the north- 
ern parts of America. It was felt throughout New England. — 
See Judge Davis's note on Morton, p. 289, 294. 

This year the ministerial house* was built in Plymouth, and 
£60 voted to finish it. Half the payment in tar and corn; the 
tar to be twelve pence in the barrel cheaper than at Boston; 
the other half in wheat, barley, peas, butter, or money. This 
parsonage house was erected on the north side of First street, 
(Leyden street) just below the present precinct house, but not 
on the same lot. The house, erected in 1832, by Mr. James 
Bartlett, Jr., and that on the west side of it, now occupy the 
place. The lot on which stands the present precinct mansion 
house, was given to the First Church of Christ in Plymouth, 
by Bridget Fuller and Samuel Fuller, the worthy v/idow and 
son of Dr. Samuel Fuller. 

1664 .-In 1664, king Charles II. issued a commission empower- 
ing Col. Richard Nicolls, Sir Robert Carr, George Cartwright, 
and Samuel Maverick, Esquires, ' to hear and determine com- 
plaints and appeals in all cases, as well military as criminal and 
civil,' within New England, and to proceed in all things for set- 
tling the peace and security of the country. His majesty caused 
letters to be addressed to the government of New Plymouth, in 
which are many expressions of royal grace and favor, promising 
to preserve all their liberties and privileges, both ecclesiastical 
and civil, without the least violation; and enjoining loyalty, af- 
fection and obedience on the part of his New-England subjects. 

Thomas Willet was chosen to confer with the commissioners 
in behalf of the Plymouth colony, making respectful professions 
of fidelity and allegiance. 

1665. — The following are the proposhions made by his ma- 
jesty's commissioners to the general court of New Plymouth, 
held at Plymouth, for the jurisdiction of New Plymouth, the 
twenty-second of February, Ann. Dom. 1665. 

1. That all householders inhabiting in the colony take the 
oath of allegiance; and the administration of justice be in his 
majesty's name. 

2. That all men of competent estates and civil conversation, 
though of different judgments, may be admitted to be freemen, 
and have liberty to choose and be chosen officers, both civil 
and military. 

3. That all men and women of orthodox opinions, competent 
knowledge, and civil lives, (not scandalous,) may be admitted 
to the sacrament of the Lord's supper, and their children to 
baptism, if they desire it: either by admitting them into the 
congregations already gathered, or permitting them to gather 



1665] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 121 

themselves into such congregations, where they may have the 
benefit of the sacrament. 

4. That all laws and expressions in laws, derogatory to his 
majesty, if any such have been made in these late troublesome 
times, may be repealed, altered, or taken off from the file. 

The Courts Jinswer. 1. To the first we consent, it having 
been the practice of this court, in the first place, to insert in 
the oath of fidelity required of every householder, to be truly 
loyal to our sovereign lord, the king, his heirs, and successors. 
Also, to administer all acts of justice in his majesty's name. 

2. To the second we also consent, it having been our con- 
stant practice to admit men of competent estates and civil con- 
versation, though of different judgments, yet being otherwise 
orthodox, to be freemen, and to have liberty, to choose and be 
chosen officers, both civil and military. 

3. To the third we cannot, but acknowledge it to be a high 
favor from God and from our sovereign that we may enjoy our 
conscience in point of God's worship, (the main end of trans- 
planting ourselves into these remote corners of the earth,) and 
should most heartily rejoice, that all our neighbors, so qualified 
as in that proposition, would adjoin themselves to our societies, 
according to the order of the gospel, for enjoyment of the 
sacraments to themselves and theirs; but if, through different 
persuasions respecting church government, it cannot be ob- 
tained, we would not deny a liberty to any, according to the 
proposition, that are truly conscientious, although differing from 
us, especially where his majesty commands it, they maintain- 
ing an able preaching ministry for the carrying on of public 
sabbath worship, which, we doubt not, is his majesty's intent, 
and withdraw not from paying their due proportion of mainte- 
nance to such ministers as are orderly settled in the places 
where they live, until they have one of their own, and that in 
such places as are capable of maintaining the worship of God 
in two distinct congregations. We being greatly encouraged 
by his majesty's gracious expressions in his letter to us, and 
your honor's further assurance of his Royal purpose, to con- 
tinue our liberties, that where places, by neason of our paucity 
and poverty, are incapable of two, it is not intended that such 
congregations as are already in being should be rooted out, 
but their liberties preserved, there being other places to ac- 
commodate men of different persuasions in societies by them- 
selves, which, by our known experience, tends most to the pre- 
servation of peace and charity. 

4. To the fourth we consent that all laws and expressions in 
laws derogatory to his majesty, if any such shall be formed 

11 



122 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1665 

amongst us, which at present we are not conscious of, shall be 
repealed, altered, and taken off from the file. 

By order of the general court for the > 
jurisdiction of New Plymouth. ) 
Per me, 

Nathaniel Morton, 
Secretay^y. 

The conditions expressed in the answer to the third proposi- 
tion appeared so reasonable to the commissioners, that when 
they afterwards met the general assembly of Connecticut, in 
April, 1665, their third proposition is qualified in substance, 
conformably to the Plymouth reply. — Judge Davis's Ed. Mem. 

So favorable was the report of the Royal commissioners re- 
specting the affairs and proceedings of the Plymouth colony, 
that in 1666 his majesty addressed a second letter to that gov- 
ernment, in which the Royal approbation and praise are ex- 
pressed in exalted terms, presuming that the fidelity and affec- 
tion for their sovereign are 'rooted in their hearts.' 'Al- 
though,' says the letter, ' your carriage of itself must justly 
deserve our praise and approbation, yet it seems to be set off 
with more lustre by the contrary deportment of the colony of 
Massachusetts, as if by their refractoriness they had designed 
to recommend and heighten the merit of your compliance with 
our directions for the peaceable and good government of our 
subjects in those parts. You may, therefore, assure yourselves, 
that we shall never be unmindful of this your loyal and dutiful 
behavior, but shall upon all occasions take notice of it to your 
advantage, promising you our constant protection and royal 
favor in all things that may concern your safety, peace, and 
welfare. And so we bid you farewell.' 

At the general court of magistrates and deputies assembled 
at Plymouth in October, 1665, it was deemed indispensably 
necessary that Governor Prince should remove his residence 
from Eastham to Plymouth, for the more convenient adminis- 
tration of justice, and he having complied with the requisition, 
the court therefore ordered that his salary should be £50 per 
annum. And as he ♦resided in a place which had been pur- 
chased by the colony ' for that end,' it was further ordered, in 
case of his decease, his family should be permitted to remain 
in the place for a year; or if he should not be re-elected, he 
should be at liberty to remain in the government house a year. 

With respect to the assistants, it was enacted that the old 
magistrates should be allowed £20 per annum, and that the 
charge of their table should be defrayed, and those who were 
newly elected should be allowed the charge of their table only, 



1666 &t 67] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 123 

In July, 1667, jE50 annual salary was allowed to all the assist- 
ants, and the charge of their table. It was also enacted, that 
such as were chosen to the office, and should refuse to serve, 
should be fined £5 for the use of the colony. 

1666. — 'This year,' says Morton, the author of the New 
England Memorial, ' much of the wheat is destroyed by blast- 
ing and mildew; ' audit appears that this evil so frequently at- 
tended the attempts to cultivate that valuable grain on the sea- 
coast, that the inhabitants became discouraged and relinquished 
further trials. 

This year, it was enacted that only three courts in the year 
should be holden for the trial of causes by jury, viz. on the first 
Tuesday of March and July, and the last Tuesday in October, 
but that it should be lawful, on special occasions, for any citi- 
zen of the colony, or others, to purchase special courts in the 
interim, to be composed of the governor and three of the ma- 
gistrates at least. Subsequently, the governor and two assist- 
ants were empowered to authorize the purchase of a court, in 
the interim between the courts, to be holden by the governor 
and three assistants at least*, and to be at the expense of the 
applicants. 

The office and duties of Selectmen. This office was fraught 
with responsibleness, and required men of good intelligence 
and information. They were constituted a court for the trial 
of small causes, being empowered to hear and determine all 
debts and differences arising betwixt person and person, not 
exceeding thirty shillings, and also to hear and determine all 
differences arising betwixt any Indians and English of their 
respective townships, &c. In 1666, their powers were en- 
larged ; they might determine cases where the damages were 
laid at 40s., the right of appeal being preserved. They were 
also empowered to administer oaths and to issue executions. 
They were also required to take notice of all who came into 
the government without the approbation of the governor and 
two assistants. The court ordered the selectmen to require an 
account of all whom they should suppose to have neglected 
public worship, from profanity or slothfulness, and if they were 
not satisfied to return their names to the court. The select- 
men were required to take an oath for the just and faithful dis- 
charge of the duties of their office. 

1667. — The town agreed to send for Mr. John Cotton, min- 
ister, and bear the charge of the transportation of him, and his 
family and goods from Martha's Vineyard to Plymouth, and to 
allow him the sum of £50 for the present year. 

The Royal commissioners having made a special request to 



124 HISTORY OF PLYBIOUTH. [1668 

the court, that a grant of land might be made to Peregrine 
White, in respect that he was the first of the English born in 
these parts, the court granted him 200 acres in Bridgewater, 
adjoining Massachusetts. In August of this year, the squaw 
sachem of Pocasset, named Weetamore, in attempting to escape 
from her pursuers, by crossing Tetticut river on a raft, was 
drowned. "She was," says Dr. Mather, "next unto Philip 
in respect of the mischief that hath been done. Some of 
Taunton, finding an Indian squaw in Mattepoiset, newly dead, 
cut off her head, and it happened to be Weetamore, i. e. squaw 
sachem, her head. When it was set upon a pole in Taunton, 
the Indians who were prisoners there, knew it presently, and 
made a most horri^ and diabolical lamentation, crying out that 
it was their queen's head." Was not this an inhuman act.> 

1668. — At a town-meeting in October, it was ordered, that 
the selectmen have full power to require of any that shall re- 
ceive strangers into their houses to give security, to save the 
town from charge; and also ordered, that John Everson be 
forthwith warned to depart from the town. It was ordered, 
February 5th, that only such be reputed townsmen us were 
inhabitants and freeholders thereof at the time when the court 
allowed it to be a town, and thefir successors, and that it be at 
their liberty to admit such otherij as are house-keepers of hon- 
est life, and are like to approve themselves so as they may be 
beneficial to the commonwealth, according to their capacity 
and abilities. 

It was this year, in town-meeting, ordered, that all persons 
shall bring in true bills of their estate to the raters, and if any 
neglect, it is left to the raters to rate them as they shall in their 
discretion see cause, and if any one bring in a false bill, the 
raters, suspecting it, shall present it to the town at a meeting, 
and, if proved false, the person is to forfeit 12 pence on the pound 
for whatever rateable goods he hath omitted. The rateable 
property is then enumerated, and its value stated. All lands, 
upland and meadow. All stock, as neat cattle, horses, sheep, 
and s^vine. All single men, who have not presented above 18 
pounds stock, shall notwithstanding be rated to that amount. 
Weavers were rated for their looms. Tailors for their faculty, 
to be valued at 20 pounds stock. Those in public office, re- 
ceiving salaries, were rated. All those who are engaged 
about fishing to be valued at 20 pounds estate. Edward Gray 
gtood the highest for stock in trade, being six score pounds. 

Serjeant Harlow, for his faculty, being a Cooper, <£40 

-* Joseph Bartlett - - - Cooper, ^30 

Samuel Rider, - - - Cooper, £30 



1668] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 125 

Joseph Dunham - - - Carpenter, £30 

James Cole, keeping an Ordinary, £20 

I Thomas Lucas, being a Smith, £50 

V Jabez Howland - - Smith, £40 

Edward Gray, Serjeant Harlow, and Edward 
-N Dotey, for their boat, £25 

Edward Gray for another boat, £25 

Jonathan Barnes for a boat, £18 

George Watson for a boat, £12 

Lieut. Morton for a boat, £18 

Impyisonment for Debt authorised. An act for the pre- 
vention of the diversion of the execution of justice, by fraud 
or cozen, provided that where estate could not be found " to 
satisfy any fine or mulct due the country, or to answer a judg- 
ment obtained against any persons at the particular suit of any, 
the person of any so fined or cast in law shall be secured, to be 
responsible thereunto." 

Constables, in case of the inabihty of coroners, were to call 
inquests on dead bodies. In reference to such as come to un- 
timely deaths, it was enacted, July 1673, that there should be 
no burial without information to a coroner, or a constable 
where there is no coroner, under a penalty of £5. The near- 
est relations to the deceased to give notice; if none, any per- 
son, having knowledge of the fact, was bound to communicate 
it, for which he was to be paid from the estate of the deceased, 
and where there was no estate, by the treasurer. In 1668, 
none were permitted to vote in town-meetings but freemen and 
freeholders, of £20 rateable estate,, and of good conversation, 
hiaving taken the oath of fidelity. 

October. Price of produce was regulated as follows, in pay- 
ment of minister's salary: Wheat 4s. 6d.; barley 4s.; rye 3s. 
6d.; corn 3s. ; peas 3s. ; malt 4s. ; butter 6d. 

Timothij Hatherly, the founder of Scituate, died there this 
year. Mr. Hatherly was an eminent English merchant, and 
had been one of the most zealous of the adventurers in for- 
warding the settlement of the colony. He came over in the 
Ann in 1623, as already mentioned, and returned home; came 
over again in 1632, and settled at Scituate, of which place he 
may be considered the founder. He was elected an assistant 
in 1636, and was continued in that office by successive elec- 
tions until 1658. He was the treasurer of the colony, and 
sometimes a commissioner of the United Colonies. Mr. Hath- 
erly was a gentleman of great intelligence and piety, and ex- 
tremely useful in all the transactions of the colony. 

A. H. for making a proposal of marriage to E. P. and pro- 
11* 



; 126 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1669 

secuting the same, contrary to her parent's liking and without 
their consent, and directly contrary to their mind and will, was 
sentenced to pay a fine of five pounds and find securities for 
good behaviour, and desist the use of any means to obtain or 
retain her affections. The bond A. H. acknowledgeth to owe 
the king £50, J. D. £25, T. W. £25. The condition that 
whereas the said A. H. hath disorderly and unrighteously en- 
deavored to obtain the affections of Miss j^. P. against the 
mind and will of her parents, if therefore the said A. H. shall 
for the future refrain and desist the use of any means to obtain 
or retain her affections as aforesaid, and appear at court the 
first Tuesday of July next, and be of good behaviour, &c. Re- 
leased July 3d, 1667. A. H. did solemnly and seriously en- 
gage before the court that he will wholly desist, and never ap- 
ply himself for the future as formerly he hath done to Miss E. 
P. in reference unto marriage. July, 1667. 

Twenty pounds were allowed by the colony towards printing 
the New England Memorial, and it was recommended to the 
towns to make a free and voluntary contribution towards it. 
The treasurer was directed to have it printed, and five pounds 
more were added. The next year the court ordered the trea- 
surer to make good a barrel of beef to Mr. Green, the printer, 
at Cambridge, to satisfy what is behind for printing the New 
England Memorial, which is something more than is due, but 
the court is willing to allow it, as he complains of a hard bar- 
gain. 

1669. — Single persons were forbidden to live by themselves, 
J or in any family excepting such as should be approved by the 
selectmen. 

E. D. of Eastham, for slandering and belying his neighbors, 
was fined twenty shillings, and reserved for future censure to a 
further trial of his future conversation. J. C. for travelling on 
Sunday, and W. H. for conveying wood on Sunday, fined ten 
- shillings each. N. S. for telling several lies to the damage of 
the -colony, fined £5, or to be whipped. H. R. for abusing her 
husband, sentenced to be publicly whipped at the post: at the 
earnest entreaty of herself and others, and promising amend- 
ment, it was suspended; but if at any other time she be taken 
in the like fault, it is to be executed. 

On the eighth of December, 1669, died. Captain Thomas 
Southworth one of the assistants, at the age of fifty-three. 
He attracted the attention and respect of the people very early, 
and was selected to succeed Mr. Brewster in his office of rul- 
ing elder; but governor Bradford deeming him to be well 



1670] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 127 

adapted to civil office, the design was abandoned, and Mr. 
Cushman was elected. 

Mr. Southworth was elected an assistant in 1652, and con- 
tinued in the government, with but few interruptions, until his 
death. He was one of the commissioners of the united colo- 
nies in 1659, and three years after; again in 1664 he was ap- 
pointed governor of the colonies' territory on the Kennebec 
river, in Maine. He was a man eminent for the soundness of 
his mind and the piety of his heart. It has been noticed, page 
107, that governor Bradford married for his second wife Mrs. 
Alice Southworth, who came over with her two sons. Constant 
and Thomas. Thomas married his cousin Elizabeth Reyner, 
a daughter of the Rev. John Reyner, the minister of Plymouth. 
His only child, Eliza, married Joseph Howland, a son of John 
Howland, one of the Pilgrims of the Mayflower. * 

Constant Southworth was admitted a freeman in 1637, and 
in the same year married a daughter of Mr. Collier. His 
name is on the list of volunteers to go against the Pequots, in 
1637. He was elected deputy for Duxbury in 1649, and in 
several other years; was colony treasurer from 1659 to 1678, 
and often one of the assistants. In the early part of Philip's 
war he was commissary general, and accompanied the army. 
The famous partizan officer, Benjamin Church, married his 
daughter Alice, and two of his sons frequently accompanied 
Church in his expeditions. He died in 1687, leaving thrfee 
sons, Edward, Nathaniel and William; three married daugh- 
ters and two unmarried. 

1670. — By a law of this year, any one refusing to serve in 
the office of Selectman was to be fined, and it was ordered 
that there should be three courts of selectmen in a year. The 
selectmen were not only the chief executive and police officers 
of the several towns, charged with a general superintendence 
of town affairs, and with a general oversight of the morals and 
manners of the inhabitants, but they were judicial officers. 
See page 123. y 

* Captain Soutbworth's death is thus noticed in the records. " On 
the eighth day of November, Anno Dom. 1669, the honored Cap- 
lain Thomas Southworth changed this life for a better ; being then 
abt)ut the age of fifty-three years ; who was a magistrate of this 
jurisdiction, and otherwise a good benefactor to both church and 
commonwealth ; and tliat which is more than all that has been 
named, he was a very Godly man, and he lived and died full of 
faith and comfort, being much lamented by all of all sorts, sects, 
and conditions of people within our jurisdiction of New Plymouth. 



128 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1671 & 72 

In town-meeting, the present year, it was ordered, that there 
shall be no tar made by any person but such as are townsmen, 
whose names are entered in the town's list; ordered also, that 
there shall be no pine knots collected or tar made within the 
town by others than townsmen, on forfeiture of all such knots 
or tar. Town proprietors may, by themselves, or order, make 
ten barrels of tar annually, and no more. It was at the same 
time ordered, that whatever whale, or part of a whale, or other 
great fish that will make oil, shall by the Providence of God, 
be cast on shore within the bounds of the township, every such 
whale or fish, two parts, of three, shall belong to the town, 
and the other part to such as may find and cut them up, and 
try out the oil, provided they be of the town proprietors. 

1671. — John Prince and Nathaniel Bosworth, of Hull, pe- 
titioned the General Court of Plymouth for liberty to fish at 
Cape Cod for mackerel, they having, discovered a method of 
fishing with nets by moonlight. 

This year the code of laws for the colony was again revised, 
and the next year printed, with this title: The book of the 
general laws of the inhabitants of the jurisdiction of New Ply- 
mouth. Printed by Samuel Green, of Cambridge. * 

John Barnes was standing at his barn door stroking his bull, 
when the animal turned suddenly and thrust his horn into his 
thigh, making a wound eight inches long, from which he lan- 
guished about thirty-two hours, and then died. From him 
probably descended the family of Barnes, in this town. 

1672.— February 23d, Mr. John Rowland, sen. of Plymouth, 
deceased. *' He was a Godly man and an ancient professor 
in the ways of Christ; he lived to the age of 80 years, and 
proved a useful instrument of good in his place. He was the 
last man that was left of those that came over in the ship called 
the Mayflower that lived in Plymouth; he was with honor in- 
terred at Plymouth on the 25th of February." Mr. Howland 
was an assistant in the government as early as 1633, and for 
several years afterward. He left several daughters and four 
sons, viz. John, who settled at Barnstable; Joseph, settled at 
Middleborough; Jabez, was a very active and enterprising 
Lieut, under Capt. Church in Philip's War, and after the 
conquest of Mount Hope, he settled at Bristol, in Rhode 
Island. 

* ' Governor Hutchinson, with unaccountable carelessness, has 
assorted, ('vol. ii. 463) that they never established any distinct code 
or body of laws ; grounding his assertion on a passage in Hubbard's 
MS. History, which implies no such thing. — Belknap. 



1671 & 72 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 129 



The following remarks and family Genealogy, are from the pen 
of the venerable John Howland, President of the Rhode / 
Island Historical Society. 

Unaccountable as it may appear, it is unhappily true that 
very few of those men who first arrived from England, and com- 
menced the settlement of the New-England Colonies left any 
memorials for the information of their descendants respecting 
the place of their birth or residence in the country they left, or 
any account of those branches of their respective families which 
they left behind. Roger Williams was a learned man, and 
one of the principal founders of the Colony of Rhode Island, 
and of which he was several years Governor, he wrote and 
published several Tracts on different subjects, yet left nothing 
from which we are able even to infer the place of his birth or 
education, and what is deemed peculiarly unfortunate for the 
history of the State, neither himself or any of his colleagues in 
the enterprise have left any notice of the time of his arrival at 
Providence. Records, as well as tradition, assure us that his 
arrival, to begin the settlement, was in the year sixteen hun- 
dred and thirty-six, but the month, or the day cannot now be 
ascertained. And most of the emigrants who arrived in the 
Mayflower, and began the settlement of the first Colony, as well 
as those who came after, seem to have literally obeyed the advice 
and injunction of the Royal Prophet, in the 45th Psalm — Forget 
also thine own people and thy Father^ s house; instead of thy Fath- 
erSj shall be thy children. So far as relates to historical or fam- 
ily records their descendants seem to have been as forgetful as 
their parents; it is therefore at this day a work of time and great 
labor to trace the genealogical time of a family from the Pilgrims, 
even though their ancestors were in their day men of renown. 
I have nevertheless thought it proper to engross such notices 
of my ancestors as I have been able to collect and which may 
be more likely to be preserved here than on the loose papers 
on which the Memorials were first entered. 

John Rowland and his wife, Elizabeth Carver, daughter of/ 
Governor Carver, arrived at Plymouth in the ship called the 
Mayflower, December 16th, old style, 1620. 

John Rowland and Elizabeth his wife had four sons and six 



130 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1671 &, 72 

daughters, the names of the sons were John, Jabez, Isaac, and 
Joseph. (See page 128 of the present volume.) 

The names of the six daughters, who were allliving and 
married at the time of their father's decease, are entered in his 
will as follows ; 

Desire Gorham. 
Hope Chipman. 
Elizabeth Dickenson. 
Lydia Brown. 
Hannah Bos worth. 
Ruth Cushman. 
John Howland, son of John Howland who arrived at Ply- 
mouth, settled in Barnstable. 

Jabez, the 2nd son after the Indian war settled in Bristol. 
Isaac, settled in Middleborough. 
Joseph, the 4th son settled in Plymouth. 
Jabez Howland, second son of John Howland and Elizabeth 
his wife was married to Bethia Thacher, only daughter of An- 
thony Thacher of Yarmouth. Before their removal to Bristol, 
they had three sons born in Plymouth, viz: 
Jabez, born 15th September, 1669. 
Josiah, born August 1st, 1676. 
John, born July 26, 1679. 
Samuel born in Bristol. 
Joseph, born in Bristol, October 14th, 1692. 
From the four sons jfirst above mentioned are descended a 
numerous posterity. 

For the very interesting account of the life of Anthony 
Thacher and of his descendants in the male line, see the history 
of the Thacher family, published by Dr. James Thacher one of 
the descendants. See also the recordof illustrious providences 
by Increase Mather, published in Boston in the year 1684. 

Joseph Howland, youngest son of Jabez and Bethia How- 
land and grandson of John Howland and Elizabeth his wife, 
born October 14th, 1692. 

Bathsheba Gary, daughter of David Gary was born August 
14th, 1693. Joseph Howland was married to Bathsheba Gary, 
to whom were born: 

Lydia, November 6, 1715. 
Joseph, born December 6, 1717. 
Elizabeth, February 14th, 1719. 
Joseph Howland, son of Jabez, and grandson of John and 
Elizabeth Howland who arrived at Plymouth in the Mayflower, 
died August 16th, 173.7.. 



1671 Sl 72] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 131 

Joseph Howlandj son of Joseph and Bathsheba settled in 
Newport, R. I. 

In the year 1638, (which was two years after Roger Wilhams 
and his company settled at Providence) Wilham Coddington 
and seventeen other gentlemen from Massachusetts began the 
settlement of the Island of Rhode Island, the Indian name of 
which was Aquetneck, sometimes called by Gov. Winthrop in 
his Journal Aquaday. They purchased the Island, by the agency 
and assistance of Roger Williams of the two great Sachems of 
Narraganset, Conanicus and Miantinoma, and gave the Indians 
who lived on the Island twenty hoes, some strings of beads and 
other articles to move off and give them quiet possession. Of 
the number of purchasers was James Barker, and on the divi- 
sion of the land a large tract near the south east part of the 
Island fell to his share, and at his death was principally divided 
among his four sons. 

James Barker's name stands in the charter of King Charles 
the second, as one of the Proprietors forming the Colony of 
Rhode Island and Providence Plantations, and he is there ap- 
pointed one of the ten assistants. His age or the time of his 
death I have not yet ascertained. Jeremiah Barker, grandson 
of James Barker, was born January 16th, 1699, and in 1724 
was married to Penelope Hicks, who was born July 24th, 1703. 

Sarah Barker, daughter of Jeremiah and Penelope Barker, 
born April 5th, 1725. She was born, and lived till her marriage, 
in the house first built on that part of the Island by her great 
grandfather, James Barker. The house stood on the east side 
of the brook and on the west side of the road in Middletown, 
which leads to Sachawest Beach. 

* Joseph Howland, son of Joseph and Bathsheba Howland, 
grandson of Jabez and Bethia Thacher Howland, and great 
grandson of John Howland, who arrived in the Mayflower, was 
in 1746, married to Sarah Barker, daughter of Jeremiah and 
Penelope Barker. 

Henry Howland, son t)f Joseph and Sarah Howland was 
born in Newport in 1751, and is now living, he married Susan 
Baker. Their only son, Benjamin Baker Howland, is the pre- 
sent Town Clerk, and Clerk of Probate in Newport. 

Penelope Howland only daughter of Joseph and Sarah How- 
land born in 1755, married Captain John Taber. From this mar- 
riage are descended children to the third and fourth generation. 

John Howland, son of Joseph Howland and Sarah his wife, 
was born in Newport, October 31st, 1757, removed to Provi- 
dence, and January 28th, 1788, was married to Mary Carlile, 
daughter of John and Ehzabeth Carlile, and great grand-daugh- 



132 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

ter of the elder brother of Dr. Benjamin Franklin. To them 
were born : 

Alfred, born February 26, 1790. 
Penelope, January 19th, 1792. 
Benjamin Russell, October 20th, 1793. 
Janetta, October 6th, 1801. 
Mary, August Uth, 1805. 

Six children of John and Mary Howland, whose names are 
not entered here, died under the age of 2 years. 

Alfred, eldest son of John and Mary Howland, died February 
4th, 1816, aged 26 years. 

Benjamin Russell, son of John and Mary Howland, died in 
Nashville, Tennessee, October 16th, 1827. 

Penelope Howland married to Amherst Everett, son of Dr. 
Abijah Everett, of Attleborough, August 19th, 1813. 

Mary Howland married to Roland Lyman of East Hampton, 
December 30th, 1831. 

Cliildren of Amherst and Penelope Everett. 

Mary Howland Everett, John Howland Everett, 

Alfred Howland Everett, Edward Amherst Everett, 

Bethia Thacher Everett, Richmond Everett. 

Elizabeth Russell, daughter of Roland Lyman and Mary 
his wife, born March 23d, 1835. 

RECAPITULATION. 

FIRST GENERATION. 

John Howland and Elizabeth his wife, who arrived at Ply- 
mouth, December 22d, 1620. 

SECOND GENERATION. 

Jabez Howland and Bethia Thacher his wife. 

THIRD GENERATION. 

Josiah Howland and Bathsheba his wife. 

FOURTH GENERATION. 

Joseph Howland and Sarah his wife. 

FIFTH generation]! 

Henry Howland and Susan his wife. 
Penelope Howland, her husband John Taber. 



1671 & 72] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 133 

John Rowland and Mary, his wife. 

Benjamin Rowland and Susan his wife. (Omitted in the 
preceding page.) 

SIXTH GENERATION. 

Benjamin Baker Rowland, of Newport, 

Penelope Everett, ^ 

Jenetta Rowland, > daughters of John Rowland. 

Mary Lyman, ) 

Six sons and three daughters of Benjamin Rowland. 

SEVENTH GENERATION. 

Three children of Benjamin B. Rowland. 
Four children of Amherst Everett. 
One child of Roland Lyman. 
Six grandchildren of Benjamin Rowland. 



12 



134 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1673 

1673.— March 29th, died at Eastham, Governor Thomas 
Prince, in the 73d year of his age, and his remains were 
brought to Plymouth, and on the 8th of April were honorably 
interred among the fathers on the burial hill. Mr. Prince ar- 
rived at Plymouth in the Fortune, in 1621, when about 21 
years old. In 1624, he married Fear, the daughter of Elder 
Brewster. In 1634 he was chosen governor. The next year, 
being a widower, he married Mary, the daughter of Mr. Wil- 
liam Collier. About this time it is presumed he removed to 
Duxbury, where Mr. Collier resided. His residence at Ply- 
mouth is indicated by a reference in the records to his lot in 
' High Street.' In 1638, Mr. Prince again served in the office 
of governor. Before he was again elected in 1657, he had re- 
moved to Eastham, The law required the governor to reside 
at Plymouth, but there was dispensation in his favor until 1665, 
when he removed to Plymouth, and took possession of a place 
provided for him by the government, which he occupied until 
his death. It was more than a mile from the centre of the 
town, on the road towards Boston, and was called Plain Deal- 
ing. This place was well known as the Lothrop farm, and is 
now in the occupancy of Isaac L. Hedge, Esq. 

The governor's salary was at the time established at £50 
per annum, and it was stipulated that he should receive that 
sum annually, so long as he should be governor of the colony. 
The administration of Governor Prince was inauspicious and 
perplexing. Many ' uncomfortable jars ' and unhappy animosi- 
ties prevailed, in consequence of the harsh measures which 
were pursued against sectaries, especially against the Quakers. 
The governor had also to encounter many difficulties with the 
Indians. But, amidst these various perplexities, the govern- 
or appears to have pursued a firm and steady course in pro- 
motion of the substantial interests of his constituents; " and if," 
says Judge Davis, " we except the lamented departure in some 
instances, from a just and prudent toleration on religious topics, 
a critical and candid examination of Governor Prince's con- 
duct during the sixteen successive years of his magistracy, 
will, it is behoved, find little to reprehend, and much to ap- 
prove." He is particularly to be applauded for his solicitous 
attention to the establishment of schools in the colony, of a 
higher grade than had before existed. Governor Prince was 
often employed in other public services of importance. He 
was of the council of war, treasurer of the colony at one time, 
and often a Commissioner of the United Colonies, His integ- 
rity was proverbial, and his industry, energy, and sound judg- 
ment, rendered him a very useful instrument in conducting the 



1674] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 135 

affairs of the rising colony, ^^and would, we think," says Judge 
Davis, "have made him a respectable character in a far more 
considerable community." 

Among the good deeds of Governor Prince, we should not 
omit to mention his exertion for a fixed and competent support 
of an able and learned ministry. In many of the scattered 
settlements, a disposition prevailed to neglect this important 
branch of public instruction, or to employ incompetent lay ex- 
horters, practices which he uniformly discountenanced. 

Governor Prince left seven daughters, all of whom were 
married before his decease. His son, Thomas, went to Eng- 
land, where he married, and died young. 

The Plymouth church records, in expressing Mr. Prince's 
character and his amiable and pleasant conversation, depart 
from their usual course, by an indication of his personal ap- 
pearance, from which it may be supposed that it was peculiarly 
dignified and striking. ' He was excellently qualified for the 
office of governor. He had a countenance full of majesty, 
and therein, as well as otherwise, was a terror to evil-doers.' 
The foregoing is an abstract from the ample memoir by Judge 
Davis, in the Memorial. 

At the court in June of this year, Josias Winslow, the eld- 
est son of the late governor Edward Winslow, was elected as 
the successor of Governor Prince. John Alden remained the 
first assistant. 

At a town-meeting, April 22d, Captain William Bradford 
was appointed and requested to officiate as moderator at all 
town-meetings, and ordered that the principal things to be 
proposed at the meetings be drawn up in writing, and openly 
read. It was ordered, that every man in the town shall pro- 
cure twelve black-birds' heads, on pain of paying a fine of 2s. 
for every default, or 2d. apiece for so many as shall be want- 
ing of the dozen. It was also ordered, that all such persons 
as refuse to pay their rates shall be denied all the town privi- 
leges, and that none be permitted to be inhabitants in the 
town before they engage to bear their proportion of all town 
charges. 

16T4. — This year an Indian, named John Saussaman, de- 
serted the service of King Philip, and informed the governor 
of the Indian combination for the extermination of the English. 
While the government were concerting measures of defence, 
Saussaman was murdered, and his body concealed under the 
ice in Assawamset pond, in Middleborough. The murderers, 
three of Philip's men, being detected, were tried by a court 
holden in June, six grave Indians being on the jury. — See 



136 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1675 

Appendix. They were condemned to suffer death and were 
executed. The sanguinary war that followed menaced all New 
England with destruction. A wide spreading desolation and 
slaughter of the defenceless men, women and children ensued. 

1675. — It was ordered by the court, that during the time of 
public danger every man that comes to meeting on the Lord's 
day, bring his arms with him, with at least five charges of pow- 
der and shot, under a penalty of two shillings for every default. 
That whoever shall shoot off a gun on any unnecessary occa- 
sion, or at any game except at an Indian or a wolf, shall forfeit 
five shillings for every such shot, until further liberty shall be 
given. This year William Macumber, for calling on an Indian 
for a debt on Sunday, and a man for fighting on Sunday, were 
fined forty shillings each, or to be publicly whipped. The gen- 
eral court ordered that four halberts should attend the governor 
and assistants on election days, and two during the continuance 
of the court. 

In town-meeting, May 24th, it was unanimously agreed 
that the house and land on which Mr. John Cotton, their pre- 
sent minister now lives, shall be given to him and to his heirs 
and assigns forever, in case the said Mr. Cotton liveth and 
dieth in this place in the work of the ministry. In considera- 
tion of which, the said Mr. Cotton and his wife do fully and 
freely quit and discharge the said town of the fifty pounds 
which they had promised to Mistress Cotton formerly, in case 
of her husband's death in this place. Moreover, it is agreed, 
that the said house shall now be viewed by four men, mutually 
chosen by the said town, and Mr. Cotton to set a just value 
upon it, and if God by his Providence shall call Mr. Cotton 
from his work in this place during his life time, then the said 
house shall be again valued by four men mutually chosen as 
above, and the town will pay to Mr. Cotton the amount of the 
sum so determined. 

October 4th. — At the General Court of his majesty, held at 
Plymouth, Major James Cudworth was unanimously chosen 
and re-established in the ofi^ice of General or Commander-in- 
chief, to take the charge of our forces that are or may be sent 
forth in the behalf of the colony against the enemies, as occa- 
sion may require. — See Appendix. Captain John Gorham to 
be captain of a company. In reference to such emergent 
charges that have fallen on our honored governor the summer 
past, the court have settled and conferred on him the price of 
ten Indians, of those savages lately transported out of the gov- 
ernment. One hundred and seventy-eight had recently been 
shipped on board of Captain Sprague for Cadiz. 



1676] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 137 

1676. — January 7th. — The town having received by their 
Constables two warrants, the one requiring the town to press 
eleven able men to go forth as soldiers against the Indians, 
the other requiring a rate of eleven pounds to be raised towards 
the charge of the soldiers, the town appointed a council of war 
and raters to levy the said rate, that the aforesaid requirements 
may be speedily complied with. 

February I9th. — A fortification was ordered to be erected on 
Fort Hill, one hundred feet square, with palisadoes ten and a 
half feet high, and three pieces of ordnance planted within it; 
on which occasion all the males of sixteen years and upwards 
assisted in its erection. At the same time the town agreed with 
Nathaniel Southworth to build a watch-house, " which is to be 
16 feet in length, 12 feet in breadth, and 8 feet stud, to be 
walled with boards and to have two floors, the upper floor to be 
6 feet above the lower, to batten the walls and make a small 
pair of stairs in it, the roof to be covered with shingles, and a 
chimney to be built in it. For the said work he is to have eight 
pounds, either in money or other pay equivalent. 

This was the distressing period of Philip's war, and it was 
in the depth of winter when these preparations were impe- 
riously demanded against a savage insidious foe. These pali- 
sadoes were undoubtedly resorted to occasionally as a safe- 
guard for the helpless women and children. The fort was so 
located as to have a spring of water at hand, and to command 
an extensive landscape around. This cruel war between Philip 
and the English settlers was attended by inexpressible calami- 
ties, each party making every possible effort for the total over- 
throw of its antagonist. After its continuance of about two 
years it terminated in the death of Philip and the extinction of 
his tribe, while on the part of the colonies was suffered a loss 
of about six hundred men in the flower of their strength, twelve 
or thirteen towns were destroyed, and six hundred dwelling 
houses consumed, and more than two thousand pounds sterling 
expended,* During the continuance of this war all the inhab- 
itants of Middleborough were compelled to take refuge in the 
town of Plymouth. A brief history of Philip's war will be 

* It does not appear that, during the war with the savages, the 
colonies received any assistance from the parent country. They 
were treated as voluntary exiles and left to their own defence. — 
But when the country had increased in population and in com- 
merce, the English government discovered an anxious desire to 
draw a revenue from the descendants of those who h'ad been thus 
despised and neglected. 
12* 



138 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1678 

found recorded in the appendix to this volume. When the 
times no longer required defence against the Indians, the fort 
mentioned above was demolished, and the huge timber sold to 
William Harlow, who converted it into a dwelling house. The 
lines of the fort are still visible and may be traced with exact- 
ness, and in the year 1834 an Elm tree was planted in the 
centre by the author. The cannons employed in the fort 
were removed to Cole's Hill, for the defence of the town, not 
against savages, but the assaults of a civilized and kindred 
people during the revolutionary war. After that event the 
cannons were sold as refuse iron, and wrought up in a forge at 
Bridgewater. The antiquarian will regret that these relicts of 
ancient warfare, these protectors of our ancestors when in a 
helpless condition, were not transmitted to later generations. 

It is a consoling fact, says Dr. Holmes's Annals, that our an- 
cestors purchased of the natives their land for an equivalent 
consideration, as appears by a letter from the pious governor 
Winslow, dated at Marshfield, May 1st, 1676, as follows: ' I 
think I can clearly say, that before these present troubles broke 
out, the English did not possess one foot of land in this colony 
but what was fliirly obtained by honest purchase of the Indian 
proprietors. We first made a law that none should purchase 
or receive by gift any land of the Indians, without the knowl- 
edge of our court. And lest they should be straitened, we 
ordered that Mount Hope, Pocasset, and several other necks 
of the best land in the colony, because most suitable and con- 
venient for them, should never be bought out of their hands.' 
1678. — The General Court, well aware that it is upon the 
pastoral office that particular churches must depend for religious 
instruction and edification, ordered, that proper provision should 
be made for the support of public worship; and, in 1678, it 
was enacted that in each town and village within the jurisdic- 
tion, there should be a house of public worship erected. The 
provision made in the foregoing law is believed to have been 
the first where coercive collection of taxes, for the mainte- 
nance of ministers, was authorized. Orders had been passed 
which recommended to the people to provide a liberal support 
for their pastors, but no authority had been given to enforce 
its coercive payment. In the same year provision was made 
also for the support of public schools. 

In November of this year, two more courts were authorized 
to be holden by the selectmen of towns, in December and May. 
The laws respecting the sales of strong liquors and wines were 
renewed, and the penalties increased, and the sale was forbid- 



1680] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 139 

den to all except strangers, and not allowed to them without a 
license. 

The court, conceiving that the public safety required 
that all persons in the government should abide and continue in 
each town respectively, ordered that no one should depart on 
the penalty of forfeiting his whole personal estate, except by al- 
lowance of the governor, or two magistrates; and it shall be 
lawful to seize their persons and estates, boats, and carts, that 
shall be found employed in carrying them away. 

I cite from the Old Colony Record Book of Court Orders, the 
following proceeding: — ' This may certify, that certain Indians 
near Sandwich, whose names are Canootus and Symon and / 
Joell, being apprehended on their confession, convicted of-' 
feloniously breaking open a house and stealing from a chest of 
Zechariah Allen, of Sandwich, twenty-five pounds in money, 
they having lost or embezzled said money, and no other way 
appearing how he should be satisfied for his loss, the colony 
have sentenced the above named Indians to be perpetual slaves, 
and empower said Allen to make sale of them in New England, 
or elsewhere, as his lawful slaves for the term of their lives.' 

Edward Gray hired Clark's Island for seven years, at £3 9s. 
per annum, to keep 16 neat cattle free of rate, townsmen to 
have liberty to bring wood for building, fencing and firing. 
Agawam lands were leased for seven years. 

1679. — August 4th. Nathaniel Morton was chosen and sworn 
Clerk of the town, and it was ordered and voted, that all acts, 
orders, and grants of land, and all other particulars entered in 
our town book heretofore, shall be authentic and good in law as 
if they had been entered by a Clerk under oath. 

1680. — Josiah Winslow, governor of Plymouth Colony died 
December 18th, 1680, in the fifty-second year of his age. He 
was the son of governor Edward Winslow, born at Marshfield, 
1629, and the first governor born in New England. He enjoyed 
the benefit of his father's care and attention in his early educa- 
tion, and his whole life evidenced that he copied that eminent 
man's bright example of steady virtue, public spirit, and disin- 
terested energetic action. 

His discretion as a civil magistrate, and his bravery as a 
military commander, procured him great respect, and the fullest 
confidence of the people. One of the first steps in his adminis- 
tration, was to correct a rash proceeding that had made unfavor- 
able impressions on the minds of many of the best men in the 
colony. Mr. Cudworth was not only left out of the magistracy, 
as has been before observed, on account of his opposition to the 
proceedings against the quakers, but his letter to Mr. Brown, , 



140 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 1680] 

published in England, had given such offence, that he was dis- 
franchised, and deprived of his military command in Scituate. 
A like severity, and on similar grounds, had been exercised in 
regard to Isaac Robinson, son of the Rev. John Robinson. His 
name was stricken off the list of freemen. Soon after Mr. 
Winslow's election, both these gentlemen were restored to 
their former places, and the country had the benefit of Mr. 
Cud worth's valuable services, in many important trusts in the 
military and in the civil department. Governor Winslow was 
eminently serviceable in Philip's war. He commanded the 
English army at the great Swamp fight in 1676, (See appendix,) 
and his name is mentioned with honor in various histories of that 
period. In a letter to governor Leveret, he thus expresses him- 
self : — 'Some resolute attempt for Philip's surprisal must be put 
in execution. Would to God I was with our men, so as I might 
not, in the meantime, be missed at home. I should hope, by the 
blessing of God, to give a good account of him in a short time.' 
July 26th, 1675, 'My person, I hear, has been much threaten- 
ed. I have about twenty men at my house; have sent away 
my wife and children to Salem, that I may be less encumbered; 
have flankeredmy house, and resolved to maintain it so long as 
a man will stand by me.' His health, habitually feeble, was 
much impaired by the fatigues of the Narraganset expedition. 
In February, 1676, the commissioners of the United Colonies 
observed, that ' through indisposition of body, he is disenabled 
from going forth again.' And, therefore, made provision, that 
the commander-in-chief of the forces of the colony, where the 
seat of war should happen to be, should be ' chief over the 
whole.' One hundred pounds was allowed by the commission- 
ers for his services, and a grant, on the same ground, was made 
to him by Plymouth colony. His stated salary, as governor, 
was fifty pounds per annum. The expenses of his funeral, forty 
pounds, were directed to be paid from the public treasury, ' as 
a testimony of the colony's endeared love and affection to him.'* 
Plymouth Record. His wife was Penelope, a daughter of Her- 
bert Pelham, Esq., a gentleman of distinction, who took an early 
interest in the settlement of New England, and who came to 
Boston in 1637, but did not remain long in the country. Gover- 
nor Winslow was introduced into public life very early, and as 
soon as he was eligible, was chosen a deputy to the court from 
Marshfield, and several times afterwards. 

* Two elegies were written on the death of governor Josiah 
Winslow ; one by Rev. Mr. VVitherell, of Scituate, the other by 
Rev. Mr. VViswall, of Duxbury. The former is published in Rev. 
Mr. Dean's history of Scituate. 



1680] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 141 

In 1657, soon after the death of his father, he was chosen an 
assistant, and in 1659, the major, or chief miUtary commander 
of the colony. 

He was, for many years, a commissioner of the confederated 
colonies, and in 1673, after the death of governor Prince, he 
was chosen his successor. In his native colony, governor 
Winslow stood on the highest ground in society. ' Civic hon- 
ors awaited him in his earliest youth ; he reached every elevation 
which could be attained ; and there was nothing left for ambition 
to covet, because all had been gained. He lived on his ample 
paternal domain, and his hospitality was not only generous, but 
magnificent. In addition to his military and civic distinctions, 
he had acquired that of being the most accomplished gentleman, 
and the most delightful companion, in the colony, and the at- 
tractions of the festive and social board at Careswell were not 
a little heightened by the charms of his beautiful wife.' 'Mild 
and tolerant himself,' continues Mr. Baylies, ' he witnessed with 
regret the movements of that fierce spirit which would not tol- 
erate the liberality, and was blind to the wisdom of Cudworth 
and Brown; and he had the address to restore them to the con- 
fidence of the people, at a period when the curse of the age, 
the spirit of religious bigotry, was maddened by opposition and 
armed with power. Persevering, frank, bold and resolute, he 
encountered the hazard of popular displeasure with the same 
fearlessness as he did the ambushes and bullets of the savages. ' ^ 

His only son, the Hon. Isaac Winslow, was eminently distin- 
guished, having sustained the chief places of power and honor 
in the colony, as chief military commander under the gov- 
ernor, and for several years Chief Justice of the Inferior Court 
of Common Pleas, Judge of Probate of Wills, and one of 
his Majesty's Council for the Province of Massachusetts Bay 
for more than twenty years, and for several years President of 
that body. This gentleman possessed a true English spirit, 
much given to hospitality, and was universally beloved. He 
died at his seat at Marshfield, December, 1738,1 in the 68th year 

^ Tradition gives the following anecdote : " At the funeral of 
Gov. J. Winslow, Rev. Mr. Witherell, of Scituate, prayed that the 
Governor's son might be made half equal to his father. The Rev. 
Dr. Gad Hitchcock, on the same occasion, observed, that the prayer 
was so very reasonable that it might be hoped that God would grant 
it, but he did not. 

f He was buried on the 18th of December. The bearers were 
Col. Thaxter, Col. Lathrop, N. Thomas, N. Sever, Kenelni Winslow, 
Esq., and J . 



142 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH-. [1680 

of his age. He lived to see both of his surviving sons, John 
and Edward, take their turns as clerks of the same courts. 

His eldest son, a young gentleman of great promise, by the 
name of Josiah, engaged in military service, received a cap- 
tain's commission, and was killed in battle, with thirteen of his 
company, after a most gallant resistance against a superior 
force of French and Indians in 1724. General John Winslow, 
the eldest of the surviving sons of Isaac, was a distinguished 
and successful commander. In 1740, he commanded a company 
in the expedition against Cuba, and afterwards rose to the rank 
of Major-general in the British service.* In 1755, an expedi- 
tion against Nova Scotia was undertaken by the British Gov- 
ernment, of which General Monckton was commander-in-chief, 
and General (then Colonel) John Winslow, second in command. 
So great was the popularity of Colonel Winslow, that in an in- 
credible short time he raised for this expedition two thousand 
men. The two French forts were captured, with scarcely any 
loss on the part of the conquerors, and the whole Province 
completely reduced, chiefly through the enterprise and good 
conduct of Colonel Winslow: to him too was entrusted the dif- 
ficult and delicate task of removing the French neutrals. In 

* We have now in the library of the Pilgrim Society three com- 
missions to John Winslow, Esq. 

1. Commission by Gov. Shirley, authorising him to hold courts- 
martial while on the expedition to Crown Point, 1755. 

2. Commission by Gov. Hardy, of New York, to be General and 
commander-in-chief of the Provincial troops, July, 1756. 

3. By Gov. Pownal, to be Major-general in the king's service, 
1757. 

Gen. Winslow was remarkable for his skill in horsemanship. He 
imported a valuable horse from England, and it was among his great- 
est delights to be mounted on his favorite animal. On a certain oc- 
casion, a number of gentlemen of this town formed a party with 
Gen. Winslow, for a pleasure excursion to Saquish, in Plymouth 
harbor, and to return to dine in town. While there, Winslow fell 
asleep ; the other gentlemen silently withdrew, and pursued their 
journey. When he awoke and found himself deserted, he mounted, 
and daringly plunging his steed into the channel, swam him across, 
and landed on Plymouth beach, a distance estimated at something 
more than half a mile, from whence he rode into town, making the 
whole distance but six miles, while his companions were riding four- 
teen miles. On their arrival, they were astounded to find the Gen- 
eral seated at the tavern, prepared to greet them with a bowl of 
punch. 



1680] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 143 

1756, he commanded at Fort William Henry, on Lake George. 
He was also a counsellor of the Province. He died at Marsh- 
field in 1774, at the age of 73. 

General John Winslow resided for several years in Plymouth: 
he owned the house which now belongs to the heirs of Hon. 
James Warren, making the southwest corner of North street. 

The fact is well understood that many of this ancient family 
had been educated from infancy under the beguiling influence 
and favor of the Royal government. At the commencement, 
and during the whole progress of the revolutionary struggle, 
therefore, it was found difficult to espouse a cause so totally in- 
compatible with their sense of duty to their sovereign, and the 
family were subject to much obloquy and unhappiness by their 
faithful adherence to the royal cause. General John Winslow 
left two sons, Pelham* and Isaac. Pelham, from principle was 
in the Royal interest, and being obnoxious to popular resent- 
ment, found it expedient to resort to the British for protection, 
and he died on Long Island in the year 1776. Isaac was loyal 
also, but in the medical profession, and resided on the paternal 
estate at Marshfield, where he died in 1819, aged 81 years. 

Edward the youngest brother of General John Winslow, was 
an accomplished scholar and a gentleman of fine taste. He 
resided in Plymouth, and together with his son, filled the offices 
of clerk of the court. Register of Probate and collector of the 
Port. Being a professed royalist, he removed to Halifax with 
his family, soon after the commencement of hostilities, where 
he died, June 8th, 1784, aged 72 years. The ceremonies at 
his funeral were in a style to confer the highest honor and re- 
spect on the venerable deceased. In consequence of his re- 
moval, his estate in his native town was confiscated, but every 
branch of his family was by the British Government amply 

* Pelham married the daughter of Capt. Gideon White, of this 
town, whom he left with two daughters ; the elder married the late 
Henry Warren, Esq. and the younger married Nathan Hayward, 
Esq. Isaac Winslow, the physician, married the daughter of the 
elder Dr. Stockbridge, of Scituate. His children were John, an em- 
inent lawyer, who died at Natches, 1820, where he had removed on 
account of his health. The daughters are three, the wife of Kilborn 
Whitman, Esq., the widow of Thomas Dingley, Esq., and the wife 
of Ebenezer Clapp, Esq. John left two sons and three daughters, 
Pelham, the eldest son, died in 1832. Isaac, who now resides in 
Boston, is the only male survivor in New England, descended from 
Gov. Winslow. 



144 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1G81 

provided for during the remainder of their lives. His son, Ed- 
ward Winslow, Jr. was also an intelligent and accomplished 
gentleman; he graduated at Harvard College in 1765. He 
was one of the founders and most active members of the Old 
Colony Club, and his address on the 22d of December, 1770, 
was the first ever delivered on that occasion. This gentleman 
being friendly to the royal cause joined the British at Boston 
before the war commenced, and was afterwards appointed a 
colonel in their service. He subsequently received the ap- 
pointment of Chief Justice in New Brunswick, and his poster- 
ity are still in the enjoyment of high official distinctions^ in that 
Province. A writer in the Boston Gazette, November, 1826,* 
having just visited the seat of the Winslow family, speaking of 
the family portraits, says, ' all of which we hope may at no 
distant day be copied to adorn the Pilgrim Hall at Plymouth; 
that of Josiah Winslow is evidently by the hand of a master, 
and his beautiful bride makes one of the group. She appears 
about twenty, and her costume is more modern than is given to 
other females of that period. Her head-dress is of great sim- 
plicity, the hair parted on the top, and falling in ringlets on 
each side of her temples and neck; the countenance bespeaks 
intelligence and gentleness.' 

There are yet in existence some relics belonging to the 
Winslow family. A sitting chair which was screwed to the 
floor of the Mayflower's cabin, for the convenience of a lady: 
it is known to have been in the possession of Penelope Wins- 
low, who married James Warren. This chair is now in pos- 
session of Miss Hannah White, a direct descendant from Per- 
egrine White. A watch-purse, composed of sm.all beads, 
which was made by Penelope Pelham, while on her voyage to 
America. She married governor Winslow. A curious ring, 
which contains the hair of governor Josiah Winslow; and a 
pearl spoon. These last articles are in possession of Mrs. Hay- 
ward, who was a Winslow. 

1681. — It was ordered by the town that no foreign Indians 
be permitted to hunt within the precincts of our township, and 
that if they do not desist, complaint be made against them to 
the court. 

August 22d. In reference unto John Harman, the town 
ordered, that if any person should come and set him down in 
the street in the town, a warrant shall be in readiness to arrest 
the man that shall bring him and leave him in the street, or any 
part or place within our township, to answer for a breach of 
law in the cause. 

^Alden Bradford, Esq. 



1682] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 145 

May 21st. The town empowered the deputies to make de- 
fence in plea concerning John Harman, and do hereby engage 
to stand to what they shall conclude in that respect; and the 
town likewise engage to pay the charge that may arise in that 
behalf. And the town also voted, that no housekeeper in the 
town shall entertain any stranger in his house above a fortnight, 
without giving information to the selectmen, upon the forfeiture 
of 10s. a week for all such time as any such stranger shall be 
so entertained, and the selectmen are required to see that no 
charge fall on the town by any such neglect. 

Thomas Hinckley of Barnstable, succeeded Josiah Winslow 
in the office of governor; and was re-elected to that office for 
several years. Military companies were required to fill vacan- 
cies with able officers, and the soldiers were to be provided with 
swords and cutlasses. The selectmen were required to be un- 
der oath, and the secretary was to furnish them a book contain- 
ing all the orders of court. It was also ordered, that in every 
town of the jurisdiction, three men should be chosen and joined 
with the commissioned officers to be the town council. Elder 
Faunce was one of three members of this board, v^hose duty 
seems to have been, to adjust and make taxes accruing in 
military affairs, and to provide for the general defence. 

1682. — Agawam land was sold, to build a meeting-house; a 
free passage for the alewives up the brook from Buzzard's Bay 
reserved to the town, and the jurisdiction of the territory. This 
meeting-house was the second built on the same lot in the town 
square. The town's part of the money, which Mount Hope 
land sold for, went in part for this appropriation. 

A person was appointed by the town to grant tickets, accord- 
ing to law in such cases provided, to such persons as are ne- 
cessitated to travel on the Lord's day. The people were re- 
quired to refrain from labor and recreation on fast and thanks- 
giving days, and from travelling on the sabbath and on lecture 
days. Inn-keepers were required to clear their houses of all 
persons able to go to meeting, except strangers. 

Severe laws were passed in 1677 and in 1682, regulating the 
lives and conduct of the Indians, requiring them to live order- 
ly, soberly and dihgently. In each town where Indians live, 
one able, discreet man was to be appointed by the court of as- 
sistants to take oversight and government of the Indians in 
said town, and to take notice of all breaches of the laws. In 
each town where Indians reside, every tenth Indian shall be 
chosen by the court of assistants annually, as an overseer, who 
shall take particular inspection and oversight of his nine men, 
and present their faults to the proper authority. 
13 



146 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1683, 84, 85 

It was also ordered, that the overseers and tithing-men should 
appoint Indian constables annually, who shall attend their courts, 
and the constables shall obey all the warrants of the overseers 
on such penalty as the court of assistants shall inflict. The 
Indians were subject to all capital and criminal laws made for 
the English in the colony. For drunkenness, for the first fault 
to pay a fine of five shillings, or be whipped; for the second, 
ten shillings, or be whipped. 

Charles Stockbridge was employed by the town to build a 
grist-mill this year, now called the upper mill, being then the 
second on the same stream. 

1683.— The court ordered that the selectmen in each town 
take care that the poor in their respective townships be pro- 
vided for at the charge of the town. 

A bridge over Eel river, and one over Jones's river, ordered 
to be built. 

1684. — ^The king's highways were laid out through the town- 
ship. 

1685. — The town chose Major Bradford and Joseph Warren 
to be their agents to appear at the court and answer the town's 
presentment relating to Jones's river bridge, and act on the 
town's behalf with the agents from the four other towns, who are 
engaged with this town to repair the said bridge. 

This is the date of the colony of Plymouth being divided into 
three counties, Plymouth, Barnstable, and Bristol, and in the 
same year 'their body of laws was revised and published. It is 
a small but venerable volume, and contains many marks of the 
wisdom and piety of the framers.' There were at that time in 
the colony, 1439 praying Indians, besides boys and girls under 
twelve years of age, who were supposed to be more than three 
times that number. 

The puritans did not take the name of Christians for the 
purpose of conquest or gain; it was among their first concerns 
to conciliate the Indians, and thus prepare the way for their con- 
version to the christian faith, and great eflx)rts were made for 
their religious instruction. Judge Davis, in his Appendix to 
the Memorial, observes, that the employment of the more intel- 
ligent and energetic Indians as rulers, was particularly grateful 
to them. He had often heard of amusing anecdotes of the In- 
dian rulers. The following warrant is recollected, which was 
issued by one of those magistrates, directed to an Indian con- 
stable, and will not suffer in comparison with our more verbose 
forms. 

' I, Hihoudi, you Peter Waterman, Jeremy Wicket, quick 
you take him, fast you hold him, straight you bring him before 
me, Hihoudi.' 



1685] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 147 

On the 28th of June, died Mr. Nathaniel Morton, secretary 
of the colony court, and author of New England's Memorial. 

Nathaniel Morton was the son of Mr. George Morton, who 
came to Plymouth, with his family, in July, 1623. He had 
been an inhabitant of the same village with governor Bradford, 
in the north of England, and married the governor's sister. He 
died in June, 1624, leaving a widow and four children, Nathan- 
iel, John, Patience, and Ephraim, John, the second son, was 
an early settler in Middleborough. Ephraim was born on the 
passage from England; he became a man of considerable dis- 
tinction in the colony. He was for nSany successive years, a 
member of the council of war, and with John Bradford, repre- 
sented the town of Plymouth in the General Court holden in 
Boston, after the union with Massachusetts. From this branch 
is descended Marcus Morton, Esq., now one of the justices of 
our supreme judicial court, and also Perez Morton, Esq., late at- 
torney General of Massachusetts. Patience Morton married John 
Faunce, and was the mother of Elder Thomas Faunce. Na- 
thaniel was twelve years old when his father died. He was ad- 
mitted a freeman in 1625, and the same year was married to 
Lydia Cooper. In 1645 he was chosen clerk, or secretary of 
the colony court, and in 1679 he was sworn into office of town 
clerk. In 1673, his wife died. His second wife, who survived 
him, was Ann Templar, of Charlestown, a widow. He had 
eight children, all by his first wife, two sons who died in child- 
hood, and six daughters. All the daughters were married 
in his lifetime. Two of them, Mercy and Elizabeth, died before 
their father. The death of Elizabeth, the wife of Nathaniel 
Bosworth, of Hull, and her honorable burial at Plymouth, are 
mentioned in the old colony records. The four surviving daugh- 
ters, Remembrance, Lydia, Hannah and Joanna, were married 
to Abraham Jackson, George Ellison, Isaac Cole, and Joseph 
Prince. I have seen in the hands of Nathaniel M. Davis, Esq., 
an original deed executed by the four daughters and their hus- 
bands, dated April 6, 1692. The grantors describe themselves 
as the sons-in-law and daughters of the late Nathaniel Morton, 
and convey 'that tract of land our father lived on, as also the 
dwelling-house that our father lived in.' This is the estate now 
belonging to the heirs of the late Deacon Thomas Atwood, near 
Hobbs' hole brook. It was at his residence, by the side of 
Willingsly brook, that secretary Morton wrote the New England 
Memorial, and the church records, and performed many useful 
labors for posterity. Here, in the goodness of his heart, the 
venerable man contemplated the providence of God towards his 



148 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ' [1685 

exiled brethren, and offered his fervent devotions in behalf of 
the Leyden church. 

It was evidently the earnest desire of Mr. Morton to leave a 
correct history of the New England colonies, for the benefit of 
future generations, and his station in life afforded him peculiar 
facilities for the undertaking. He was scrupulously faithful in 
recording all interesting events and occurrences of his own 
times, that New England might remember the ' day of her 
small things,' and that he might contribute his share of origi- 
nal materials for a true and full history. The work is written 
in a modest simplicity of»style, and contains the annals of New 
England, but with a special reference to Plymouth colony, for 
the space of forty years. From his sense of religious duty he 
was induced to take a particular notice and make honorable 
mention of those eminent christians who finished their course 
in his day. 

The first edition of the Memorial was published in 1669. It 
was printed in Cambridge, by Samuel Green and Marmaduke 
Johnson, who received for that service a grant of twenty 
pounds fVom the colony, and afterwards a small additional gra- 
tuity. This work was recommended to public notice by two 
cotemporary worthies, who in after time have been celebrated 
as among the greatest divines of New England, Rev. John 
Higginson of Salem, and Rev. Thomas Thacher of Boston. 
The Memorial has been a source of resort for all succeeding 
writers on the same subject. Mr. Prince speaks of Morton's 
Memorial as the first source of his own information in compil- 
ing his invaluable annals. The work, it will be allowed, con- 
tains a rich fund of interesting narrative, relative to the early 
events which ought to be remembered, and every page indi- 
cates a mind imbued with the true spirit of piety and benevo- 
lence. Although written in plain language, and the facts are 
unadorned, the solid good sense of the author, and his lauda- 
ble attachment to all good men, and his love of country, are 
conspicuous throughout the whole. It must not be denied, 
however, that on some occasions this good man suffered his 
mind to be too much swayed by prejudice; but where is the 
man without the foible incident to our nature.^ Mr. Morton 
died at the age of 73, having sustained the office of Secretary 
of the Courts 40 years, and that of town clerk 6 years, the du- 
ties of which he ably and faithfully performed. In the office 
of town clerk he was succeeded by his nephew. Elder Faunce. 
Besides preparing the Memorial, he collected various papers of 
much use to the colony, and the present generation is greatly 
indebted to his industry, and his attention to manuscripts and 



1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 149 

dates, and to incidents which occurred in the colonies in the 
infancy of their existence. The Memorial passed through a 
second edition in 1721, to which is attached a supplement by 
Josiah Cotton, Esq. then register of deeds for the county of 
Plymouth, continuing the account from 1669, to the union of 
Plymouth colony with Massachusetts. In 1772, a third edi- 
tion, copied from the second, was printed at Newport, and in 
1826, a fourth edition was printed by Allen Danforth, at Ply- 
mouth. A fifth edition of this valuable work was published at 
Boston in 1826, to which are added numerous useful notes, and 
a copious and interesting appendix by Hon. Judge Davis. 

1686. — Mr. Thomas Hinckley was re-elected governor, and 
WilHam Bradford, deputy governor, from 1682, to the present 
year. 

We have to notice a memorable event of this year. *^0n 
the 29th of December, Sir Edmund Andros arrived at Boston, 
bringing with him an enlarged commission, which vested the 
government of all the colonies of New England in him as gov- 
ernor, and in a council, nominated by the crown; and in 1688 
New York was included in the commission. From the com- 
mencement of the year 1687, to the end of April 1689, he ex- 
ercised a power over these colonies little short of despotic." 
Governor Hinckley, whose appointment had been superseded 
by the appointment of Andros, petitioned the king for a redress 
of grievances; but the petition was totally neglected, and the 
colonists were smarting under the severity of arbitrary rule 
until April, 1689, when a rumor reached Boston that the 
Prince of Orange had landed in England. The smouldering 
fire burst forth at once, to the utter dismay of the agent of 
despotism, The people of Massachusetts, without waiting for 
a confirmation of the report, seized their arms, proclaimed 
William and Mary King and Queen of England, arrested the 
governor, and confined him at the Castle, (which they now 
called Castle William,) compelled him to resign, terminated 
the government, and restored their old governor, Simon Brad- 
street, then at the age of eighty-seven, who was called to the 
chair, not by the forms of a regular election, but by acclama- 
mation. The people at Plymouth, actuated by the same spirit, 
imprisoned Nathaniel Clark, one of the creatures of Andros 
and one of his council, and issued the following : — 

^ A Declaration of sundi'y inhabitants of Plymouth. — Whereas 
we have not only just grounds to suspect, but are well assured 
that Nathaniel Clark hath been a real enemy to the peace and 
prosperity of this people, and hath, by lying and false informa- 
tion to the late governor, caused much trouble and damage to 
13* 



150 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1686 

this place, endeavored to deprive us of our lands, and exposed 
us to the unjust severity of persons ill affected to us, whereby 
a considerable part of our estates is unrighteously extorted 
from us, to the great prejudice of our families, and the loss of 
many necessary comforts, and he persisting, from time to time, 
in his own malicious forging complaints against one or other of 
us, whereby we are in continual hazard of many further great 
inconveniences and mischief We do, therefore, seize upon 
his person, resolving to secure him for the hands of justice^ to 
deal with him according to his demerit.' 

The seizure of Clark, who was excessively odious for his 
meanness and rapacity, was the only act of violence committed 
in the Plymouth colony. 

'A pamphlet was published in the year 1691, and re-printed 
by Isaiah Thomas in 1773, bearing the title of " The Revolu- 
tion in New England justified." " To which is added a narra- 
tive of the proceedings of Sir Edmund Andros and his accom- 
plices, by several gentlemen who were of his Council." This 
pamphlet sets forth numerous atrocious deeds perpetrated by 
Sir Edmund and his minions, the truth of which appears well 
substantiated by numerous affidavits. Among the accusations 
are, — that he actually encouraged the Indians to make war 
upon the English settlers, and furnished them with powder and 
balls for that purpose, while at war. This they proved by the 
dec'araion of the Indians themselves, and by squaws detected 
coming directly from the governor's quarters, having those 
articles in their baskets. That Sir Edmund invited the French 
to come and take possession of the country, and that prepara- 
tions were making accordingly. That property was illegally 
arrested from proprietors, and that arbitrary fines, taxes, and 
illegal imprisonments were so common that no one could feel 
secure from arrest of person and property. That when the 
people complained of grievances it was declared in the gover- 
nor's Council, " that the kinp:'s subjects in jyew England did not 
differ much from slaves, and that the only difference was, that they 
were not bought and sold.''"' 

* That those who were in confederacy with Sir Edmund An- 
dros, for the enriching themselves on the ruins of New Eng- 
land, did invade the property as well as liberty of the subject, 
is in the clearest manner proved. They gave out, that now 
their charter was gone, all their lands were the hinges, that them- 
selves did represent the king, and that, tlierefore, men that 
would have any legal title to their lands must take patents of 
them on such terms as they should see meet to impose. 
*' What people," asks the writer, " that had the spirit of Eng- 
lishmen, could endure this.^ " That when they had, at vast 



1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 151 

charges of their owuj conquered a wilderness, and been in pos- 
session of their estates forty, nay sixty years, that now a par- 
cel of strangers, some of them indigent enough, must come 
and inhabit all that the people now in New England, and their 
fathers before them, had labored for! 

One Nathaniel Clark, of Sir Edmund's council and crea- 
tures, desired to have Clark's Island, which belonged to the 
town of Plymouth, conveyed to him. This was opposed by 
the town, and their agents obtained a voluntary subscription 
to bear the cost of the suit, and they were treated as criminals, 
and against all law compelled to answer in another county, and 
not in that where the pretended misdemeanor was committed. 
The Island was, however, conveyed to Clark. The Rev. Mr. 
Wis wall, minister of Duxbury, by desire of some concerned, 
transcrfljed a writing, which tended to clear the right which 
the town had to the Island; not long after, a messenger was 
sent to bring him before the governor at Boston, on the 21st of 
June, 1688; he was then lame in both feet with the gout, una- 
ble to move without great pain; he therefore wrote to the gov- 
ernor, praying that he might be excused until he should be able 
to travel, and engaged that then he would attend any court; 
but the next week an officer, by an express order from' Sir Ed- 
mund, forced him to ride in that condition, being shod with 
clouts instead of shoes; and when he came before The Council, 
he was made to stand till the anguish had almost overcome 
him. Being at length dismissed from the Council, the messen- 
ger came and told him he must go to gaol, or enter into bonds 
for his appearance at the next court in Boston, .and pay down 
£4 2s. in silver. His sickness forced him to decline a prison, 
and to pay the money. At the next superior court he appeared 
in the same lame and sick condition, and the extremity of the 
weather caused such a violent fit of sickness, that he was nigh 
unto death, and he thought that he should soon be out of their 
bonds, and at liberty to lay his information against his op- 
pressors before the righteous judge of the whole world. After 
all this he was forced a third time out of his own county and 
colony, near 40 miles, and was delivered from the hands and 
humors of his tyrannical oppressors, who had exposed him to 
great difficulties and charges, and to 228 miles travel, to and 
from Boston, where he never ought to be called for trial, even 
had he been guilty of the prefenrferf misdemeanors, which his 
worst enemies had not the face to read in open court, or openly 
to charge him with. 

The following sketch of the character of Nathaniel Clark, 
compiled chiefly from the papers of the late Isaac Goodwin, 
Esq., will not be out of place in this connexion. It will serve 



152 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1686 

to show that our puritan fathers could defeat and overthrow by 
their determined and irresistible energies the selfish views of 
a corrupt and unprincipled man. 

Nathaniel Clark was born in Plymouth, in the year 1644, 
was the sonof Thomas Clark, who died in 1697 at the advanced 
age of 98 years, and whose grave stone is among the oldest on 
our burying hill. He was educated in his native town by sec- 
retary Morton, and after the death of his patron in 1685, he 
succeeded him in the office which had been so honorably filled. 
Besides preserving a register of the legislative proceedings of 
the colony, the duties of Clerk of the Courts, Register of 
Deeds and of Probate were all performed by the secretary of 
that famous republic. An office of such importance in that 
day necessarily attracted to it much political influence, and its 
emoluments were not undeserving the attention of the worldly 
minded and ambitious. Unfortunately for the reputation of 
Nathaniel Clark, his lot seemed to be cast in a season of pe- 
culiar temptations, and the principles of his early education 
formed but a feeble barrier against its assaults. The humble 
colonists of New England were just recovering from the scourge 
of an unprecedented Indian war waged for the extermination of 
Philip and his allies. At this gloomy period, their charters were 
vacated by writs of ' quo warranto ' from the star-chamber, and 
Sir Edmund Andros, a fit tool to execute the obnoxious mea- 
sures of a tyrant, was sent from England to take the head of the 
government here. He arrived in Boston in the month of De- 
cember, 1686, and commenced his odious administration by 
depriving the people of the privilege of choosing their repre- 
sentatives, by prohibiting town-meetings, excepting for the pur- 
pose of aiding him in the collection of such taxes as he strove 
to draw from their limited and scanty resources. The press 
was to be silenced, and he had orders to maintain such a mili- 
tary force as would enable him to execute his decrees at the 
point of the bayonet.* Judge Sewall, who lived in Boston, and 
was there at the time Andros arrived, notes in his Diary, De- 
cember 24, 1686, " about sixty red coats are brought to town, 
landed at Mr, Pool's wharf, where they drew up and so marched 
to Mr. Gibbs' house at Fort Hill." The simplicity of puritan 
habits was grossly scandalized by an introduction of false 
splendor in living, and a feeble imitation of the manners and 
customs of the great, the irreligious, and the worldly. In the 
selection of his council, Sir E. Andros made choice, with few 
exceptions, of such of the citizens as he thought would be ob- 
sequious to his will and ready to execute his mandates. Be- 
sides two whom he brought with him, the council consisted of 
37 members — appointed from the different colonies in the fol- 
lowing proportion: 



1636] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 153 

From Massachusetts 10 

New York 8 

Plymouth "^ 

Rhode Island 6 

Connecticut 4 

New Hampshire ^ 

From the Plymouth colony the following gentlemen were ap- 
pointed: 

Thomas Hinckley, 
Barnabas Lothrop, 
William Bradford, 
Daniel Smith, 
John Sprague, 
John Walley, 
Nathaniel Clark. 
The unprincipled profligacy of the minions of Andros would 
have been ill repaid by grants of uncultivated land in the wil- 
derness; hence, resorting to one of the most odious doctrines of 
the Feudal system, he declared, that as the charters were va- 
cated, all the lands had reverted to the King, as the Lord para- 
mount of the soil, and he, as vicegerent of his majesty, would 
proceed to parcel them out anew. To preserve a semblance 
of justice, he offered to confirm the titles of such as would 
make speedy application, but his grants were so encumbered 
with fines, forfeitures and fees, that it was estimated there was 
not personal property enough in the country to supply his ex- 
actions for these purposes. During the rising indignation of 
an oppressed people, he began to make his peace by dealing 
out large tracts of land to such of his followers as would sub- 
serve his interest. Among these was the subject of this no- 
tice, — who was no sooner called to the council board at Boston,^ 
than he was found to be sufficiently yielding to all the wishes of 
his master. • 

The Island in Plymouth harbor, called Clark's Island, con- 
tains a little more than 80 acres of fertile land. It was upon 
this Island that the first Christian sabbath was kept in New 
England, for it was the earliest resting place of the Pilgrims 
from amidst the storm which they encountered on the night of 
Friday, December 18, 1620, while coasting along the bay in 
their little shallop, before their final landing. These circum- 
stances may have led our fathers to attach a superstitious rev- 
erence to this spot. It was neither sold nor allotted in any of 
the early divisions of the lands, but was reserved for the bene- 
fit of the poor, of the town, to furnish them with wood and 
with pasture for their cattle. 



154 ' HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1686 

The avarice of counsellor Clark was attracted to this Island, 
— the hallowed ark that had rescued his fathers from the min- 
gled horrors of a night storm, upon an inclement and unknown 
shore, and in succeeding years the support of the destitute and 
the wretched. His master made the wished for grant, and 
accordingly on the 3d of March, 1687-8, it was surveyed and 
laid out for his use. Immediately, in defiance of arbitrary 
threatenings, and the heaviest denunciations, a town-meeting 
was called, and a firm and united resolution was adopted, to 
reclaim the Island at every hazard. A committee was choseu 
to collect subscriptions to defray the expenses. Amidst the 
indignation of his townsmen and neighbors, * the secretary 
stood alone.' He immediately arrested the committee for levy- 
ing taxes upon his majesty's subjects, and they, together with 
the town clerk and minister of Duxbury, were bound over to 
the Supreme Court at Boston. 

The following letter from Rev. John Cotton, then pastor of 
the church at Plymouth, to Rev. Mr. Mather of Boston, is 
feelingly descriptive of these scenes. 

Plymouth, July 9, 1688. 

" Awful and considerable changes have attended poor Ply- 
mouth since your departure from the Gurnet, by reason of the 
motions about Clark's island. The committee chosen about 
that affair were at so much charge as necessitated our people 
to engage, by free and voluntary subscriptions, to re-imburse 
them, and to vote the securing some lands till the money was 
paid them. For this (******) tetches, the committee with a 
writ, charging that they had resolved and raised money upon 
his majesty's subjects contrary to law, and the town clerk, godly 
Elder Faunce, for calling the vote, and Mr. Wiswall for writ- 
ing the paper, £3 7s. each, beside their expenses, and all 
were bound over to the Superior Court at Boston, where they 
are^U likely to be considerably fined, besides costs of court, 
&c." 

But the reign of tyranny was short. A report of the landing 
of the Prince of Orange in England reached America early in 
the year 1689, but before the news of the entire and glorious 
revolution there had arrived in Boston, Andros was seized and 
imprisoned by the inhabitants of that town. This took place 
on the morning of the 18th of April, and William and Mary 
were proclaimed in Boston on the 29th of the month following. 
The people of Plymouth at the same time declared their detes- 
tation of Counsellor Clark by a spirited manifesto, which bears 
date April 22d, 1689, setting forth his oppressions and his 
Climes, and declaring that they seized upon his person, resolv- 
ing to secure him for the hands of justice to deal with him ac- 



1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 155 

cording to his demerit. He was accordingly imprisoned and 
put in irons, and the next year sent with Andros, his master, 
in the same ship to England. The government there were not 
disposed to view their officers in the same light, and they were 
soon liberated and rewarded for their services in the cause of 
the British monarch. Nearly a century rolled away, and this 
account was fully settled, between the injured colonists and 
their royal masters, — in several distinct payments, the first of 
which was made on the 19th of April, 1775. Clark, laden 
with the rewards of his perfidy and baseness, returned to his 
native town. Under the new charter regular courts were es- 
tablished, and the counsellor began the practice of the law. 
The sacredness of those august tribunals could not shield him 
from obloquy and merited insult. Even his domestic misfor- 
tunes were not forgotten. At an early period of his life, his 
wife had obtained a divorce from him. but after his return, la- 
den with the spoils of tyranny, which enabled them to move in 
the higher circles of domestic life, she again became united to 
him, and these facts, clothed in epigrammatic style, were noted 
on the blank leaves of the books of authorities which he car- 
ried with him into court. Tradition has faithfully preserved 
these memorials of the domestic character of the counsellor, — 
and this illustrates and enforces a venerable maxim, that " the 
w^ of transgressors is hard." 

The residence of Mr. Clark was on the spot which is now 
occupied by the house of the late Judge Thomas, on the west 
side of the main street in Plymouth. It was here that he died, 
January 31, 1717, in the 74th year of his age; and a simple 
slate stone with the following inscription still marks the spot on 
the burying hill in Plymouth where the remains of the coun- 
sellor were deposited. 

'^ Here lies buried 

the body of 

Nathaniel Clark, Esq. 

who died January 31, 1717, 

in the 74th year of his age." 

The following notice, from the ecclesiastical records of those 
times, shows still more fully the character of the counsellor in 
the domestic relation, and the reputation which he sustained in 
the venerable church of Plymouth. 

' The elder, speaking a few serious words to Nathaniel Clark, 
a child of the church, he broke forth into a wicked passion and 
spoke vile words, intimating as if the church would clear the 
guilty and condemn the innocent; abusing also Paul's words 
to the maniacs, as if it were better and nearer to salvation to 
be out of such a church than in it, &c. Being, at another time, 



156 , HISTORY OP* PLYMOUTH. [1686 

called before the church, he answered that he would not come, 
that he had nothing to say to them, nor would he have anything 
to do with them; two of the brethren were desired to call on 
him, but he refused to attend to their admonition, and at length, 
absenting himself from public worship and from the meeting of 
the church, he was judged worthy to be rejected, and it was 
accordingly voted unanimously that he be disowned.' 

1686. — This year died at Duxbury, John Alden, aged 89 
years, one of the Pilgrims of the Mayflower, and believed to 
have been at the time of his death, the last surviving signer of 
the original compact of Government. He was born in Eng- 
land in 1597. On his arrival, he resided the first seven years 
in Plymouth, and owned a considerable tract of land where the 
Iron factory now stands. He afterwards removed to Duxbury, 
and took up 169 acres of land in one body, where he spent the 
residue of his days. He was, for many years, deeply engaged 
in the public concerns of the colony; being elected an assistant 
as early as 1633, and continued in that office, with but little 
interruption, until the time of his death. 

After the death of Captain Standish, he was for some time 
treasurer of the colony. He possessed much native talent, 
was decided, ardent, resolute, and persevering, indifferent to 
danger, a bold and hardy man, stern, austere, and unyielding; 
of exemplary piety, and of incorruptible integrity; " an iron- 
nerved puritan, who could hew down forests and live on 
crumbs." He hated innovations and changes, steadily walked 
in the ways of his youth, and adhered to the principles and 
habits of those whom he had been taught to honor. The un- 
certainty of his claim to the honor of being the first to leap 
on the Plymouth rock has been noticed in page 31. He mar- 
ried Priscilla Mullins, and the following pleasant anecdote re- 
specting his good fortune in obtaining the hand of that lady, 
whom he was commissioned to solicit for his friend Captain 
Standish, is related by Rev. Timothy Alden, in his collection 
of American epitaphs, as having been carefully handed down 
by tradition. " 1^ a very short time after the decease of Mrs. 
Standish, the captain was led to think, that if he could obtain 
Miss Priscilla Mullins, a daughter of Mr. William Mullins, the 
breach in his family would be happily repaired. He therefore, 
according to the custom of those times, sent to ask Mi\_Mul- 
lins's permission to visit his daughter. John Alden, the mes- 
senger, went and faithfully communicated the wishes of the 
captain. The old gentleman did not object, as he might have 
done on account of the recency of Captain Standish 's bereave- 
ment. He said it was perfectly agreeable to him, but the 
young lady must also be consulted. The damsel was called 



1686] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 157 

into the room, and John Alden, who is said to have been a man 
of most excellent form, with a fair and ruddy complexion^ 
arose, and in a very courteous and prepossessing manner deliv- 
ered his errand. Miss MuUins listened with respectful atten- 
tion, and at last, after a considerable pause, fixing her eyes 
upon him with an open and pleasant countenance, said 'prithee 
John why do you not speak for yourself'?'' He blushed and 
bowed, and took his leave, but with a look which indicated 
more than his diffidence would permit him otherwise to express. 
However, he renewed his visit, and it was not long before their 
nuptials were celebrated in ample form." What report he 
made to his constituent, after the first interview, tradition does 
not unfold, but it is said, how true the writer knows not, that 
the captain never forgave him to the day of his death. From 
this union descended all of the name in the United States. 
They had four sons, viz. John, David, Joseph and Jonathan* 
John lived in Boston, and commanded the armed sloop belong* 
ing to Massachusetts. He received unwarrantable and abusive 
treatment, at the time of the Salem witchcraft, by being sum- 
moned before the magistrate on that occasion, and imprisoned. 
He died in 1702, without issue. Joseph settled in Bridge wa- 
ter; David resided in Duxbury, and was often chosen a deputy 
to the General Court. He had two sons, Benjamin and Sam- 
uel. Benjamin had four sons, David, Bezaliel, Wrastling and 
Abiather. Jonathan, son of the first John, occupied the pater- 
nal estate at Duxbury, and had three sons, Andrew, Jonathan 
and John. This John, the youngest, was much employed in 
public affairs, was often a member of the Gen. Court and Colonel 
of Militia. He inherited the homestead estate in Duxbury; 
his sons were John; Samuel, who died in England without is- 
sue; Judah, who married a Miss Row in Boston, and died on 
his passage to Glasgow soon after; Briggs, who died October, 
1796. He was for several years chosen representative to the 
General Court, and was much respected as a patriot and citi- 
zen. Andrew Alden, the son of Jonathan, settled in Lebanon, 
Connecticut; he had three sons, John, Judah, and Roger. — 
Judah was a captain in the Revolutionary army, a brave and 
intelligent officer, but was taken prisoner and died in the hands 
of the enemy. Roger Alden graduated at Yale College, was 
for some time secretary to General Washington, and afterwards 
aid de camp to General Huntington. He is now Postmaster, 
and superintendent of military stores at West Point. A son 
of David Alden, whose name was Samuel, lived in Duxbury, 
and died at the age of 93; he was the father of Colonel Icha- 
bod Alden, of the Revolutionary army, who was killed by the 
14 



158 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1687 & 90 

savages in Cherry Valley, in 1778. One of Jonathan Alden's 
daughters married Mr. Bass, of Braintree; one married Josiah, 
a son of the warrior Miles Standish; the other married Samuel 
Delano, a son of the early pilgrims. 

Mrs. Bass was a maternal ancestor of two Presidents of the 
United States, John Adams and John Q. Adams. Many ex- 
cellent citizens may be enumerated among the descendants of 
John* Alden. Judah Alden, Esq. who possesses the paternal 
domain of his great ancestor, at Duxbury, was a valiant officer 
in the American army during the eight years of the revolution- 
ary struggle, and is now President of the Massachusetts Society 
of Cincinnati. 

The Rev. Timothy Alden, late minister of Yarmouth, and 
his son Timothy, late President of Meadville College, in Penn- 
sylvania, were of this descent. 

1687. — The town voted to regulate the price of grain, for the 
payment of salaries. Tar was made in great abundance, and 
disposed of in payment of salaries. Shingles and clapboards 
were considerable aiticles of traffic; but furs and peltry were 
the principal, as in all new countries. In town-meeting, Janu- 
ary 23d, was read an order from his excellency to substantiate 
their title to Clark's Island, which had never before been called 
in question. This occasioned great excitement, and the town 
firmly resolved to defend their right to said Island to the utmost 
of their power, and chose a committee to act in behalf of the 
town accordingly; and voted, also, that the town will defray 
the expense, and a tax of ten pounds in silver money was or- 
dered forthwith for that purpose. — See account of Nathaniel 
Clark, 1689, June 22d. It was agreed to make sale of Clark's 
Island, Saquish, the Gurnet, and a certain cedar swamp called 
Colchester Swamp, to help defray the above mentioned charg- 
es. Clark's Island was sold to Samuel Lucas, Elkenah Wat- 
son, and George Morton, in 1690. At that period, under the 
government of Andros, the titles to real estate were frequently 
called in question throughout New England, by which many 
individuals were grievous sufferers. 

1690. — The general court of elections assembled at Ply- 
mouth, as formerly, on the first Tuesday of June. Thomas 
Hinckley was again elected governor, and William Bradford 
deputy governor. The deputies from Plymouth were John 
Bradford and Isaac Cushman. In August, the same year, 
another was called to which the same deputies were re-elected. 

It was now a very desirable object with the colonial govern- 
ment to procure a charter for the colony, and they appointed 
the following persons as agents to apply to the English govern- 
ment for said charter: Sir Henry Ashurst, of England, Rev. 



1692] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 159 

Increase Mather, and Rev. Ichabod Wiswall, minister of Dux- 
bury. In February the town of Plymouth voted their accept- 
ance of the three agents above mentioned, and also voted that 
it was their desire that the utmost endeavors be made to obtain 
a charter of his majesty, that we might be and continue a gov- 
ernment as formerly. It was further voted that they would be 
held for their proportion of £500, and more if need require, 
for that purpose, and at the same time agreed to raise their 
proportion of £200 in advance, to be sent to the gentlemen 
empowered as agents. It was known to have been in contem- 
plation by the English government to annex Plymouth colony 
to that of New York, and there was some misunderstanding 
among the agents on that subject, but the Rev. Mr. Increase 
Mather had the credit of preventing that annexation taking place. 

1691. — The General Court voted their thanks to Sir H. 
Ashurst, Rev. Mr. Mather, and Rev. Mr. Wiswall ; and to Sir 
H. Ashurst a grant of 50 guineas, and Mr. Mather and Mr. 
Wiswall 25 guineas each for their services. A charter was at 
length obtained for Massachusetts, which was signed October 
7, 1691, and Plymouth was annexed to it. Had the sum of 
£500 been raised and properly applied, a separate charter 
would probably have been obtained. 

The last court of election was holden at Plymouth in June, 
1691, the deputies from Plymouth were John Bradford and 
Isaac Cushman. Mr. Hinckley was re-elected governor, and 
William Bradford, deputy governor. 

1692. — Sir William Phipps, Kt., arrived at Boston, with the 
new charter, on the 14th of May. He was commissioned 
governor-in-chief in their majesty's name, William and Mary, 
and summoned a court on the 8th of June. The new province 
of Massachusett's Bay proceeded to exercise their charter au- 
thority, and the amalgamation of the two colonies was soon 
perfected. By the new charter, Plymouth colony was entitled 
to four counsellors. Those who were named for this purpose 
in the charter were Thomas Hinckley, William Bradford, John 
Walley, and Barnabas Lothrop. The qualifications of electors, 
according to that warrant, was '' a freehold of 40 shillings per 
ann. or other property of the value of £40 sterling. The old 
General Court, however, was summoned, and met at Plymouth 
on the first Tuesday of July, and exercised their power for the 
last time by appointing the last Wednesday of the following 
August to be kept as a day of solemn fasting and humiliation. 
It appears that some distinguished individuals were dissatisfied 
with the union of the two colonies, but Governor Hinckley was 
well reconciled to the measure, and it is clearly understood that 



160 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, [1692 

the union was at no period a subject of regret with the people 
generally. Governor Hinckley sustained the office of gover- 
nor for 12 years, and was in that office when the union took 
place. He died and was buried at Barnstable, and the follow- 
ing lines are inscribed on his tomb-stone. " Beneath this stone, 
erected A. D. 1829, are deposited the mortal remains of Thomas 
Hinckley. He died A. D. 1706, aged 85 years. History 
bears witness to his piety, usefulness, and agency in the public 
transactions of his time. The important offices he was called 
to fill evidence the esteem in which he was held by the people. 
He was successively elected an assistant in the government of 
Plymouth colony, from 1658 to 1681, and governor, except 
during the interruption by Sir Edmund Andros, from 1681 to the 
junction of Plymouth colony with Massachusetts, in 1692." 

The children of Governor Hinckley were one son, Ebene- 
zer, and five daughters, one of whom, Mary, was married in 
1686 to Samuel Prince, of Sandwich, father of the chron- 
ologist. 

The first General Court, under the new charter, June 8th, 
passed an act, declaring that all the laws of the colony of Mas- 
sachusetts bay and the colony of New Plymouth, not being re- 
pugnant to the laws of England, nor inconsistent with the 
charter, should be in force, in the respective colonies, until the 
10th of November, 1692, excepting where other provision should 
be made by act of assembly. 

Governors of the Colony of Plymouth from 1620 to 1692.* 

1620, John Carver, four months and 24 days. 

1621, William Bradford. 

1633, Edward Winslow. 

1634, Thomas Prince. 

1635, William Bradford. 

1636, Edward Winslow. 

1637, William Bradford. 

1638, Thomas Prince. 

1639, William Bradford. 

1644, Edward Winslow, 3 years. 

1645, W^illiam Bradford, 31 years. 
1657, Thomas Prince, 18 years. 
1673, Josiah Winslow, 7 years. 

1680 to 1692, Thomas Hinckley, 12 years, including 
several years interruption by Andros. 

There was no Lieutenant Governar till 1680. Before that 

* The first record of the electioa of any governor is in 1633. 



1692] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 161 

period, the governor, when obliged to be absent, appointed one 
pro tempore. The names of the lieutenant governors were as 
follows : 

Thomas Hinckley, 1680. 
James Cudworth, 1681. 

Major William Bradford, 1682 to 1686, & 1689 to 1691. 
There was no Secretary previous to 1636; but the records 
appear to have been previously kept by the governors. The 
hand- writing of Governor Bradford is very legible, and resem- 
bles a modern hand. 

The first Secretary was Nathaniel Souther. 
The second, Nathaniel Morton, from 1645 to 1685. 
The third, Nathaniel Thomas, 1686. 

The fourth and last, SaAuel Sprague, who, except the inter- 
ruption by Andros, continued till the union of the colonies. 
The Treasurers were William Paddy, in 1636. 
Thomas Prince, in 1637. 
Timothy Hatherly, in 1639. 
Jonathan Atwood, in 1641. 
Miles Standish, 1644 to 1649. 
John Aiden, 3 years. 
Constant Southworth, 1662 to 1678. 
Afterwards, WilUam Bradford. 
There was no Sheriff till 1685. Writs and precepts were 
served originally by an officer, styled Messenger. In 1645, 
he was styled Marshall, and had the power of appointing depu- 
ties. Constables, however, were chosen in each town, with 
power to execute precepts, and collect rates. Upon the divi- 
sion of the colony into counties, sheriffs were appointed. A 
coroner was appointed at the beginning of the colony, but the 
office was soon abolished, and the duty of taking inquisitions 
devolved on the constables. There was no distinct office of 
register of deeds, or of wills and inventories, but those duties 
were performed by the secretary of the colony. This accounts 
for these records being blended with the other records of the 
government. Till 1685, the court of assistants was the only 
judicial court, except that the selectmen of the towns had the 
power of trying small causes. The assistants also formed a 
part of the legislature. 

The following is a correct list of Representatives from the 
Town of Plymouth in the general court of Plymouth Colony,, 
from 1639 to 1692. 



1639 William Paddy, 

Man asseh Kempt on, Jr, 



1639 John Cook, Jr. 
John Dunham. 



162 



HISTORY OF YLYM&UTH, 



[1692 



1640 


The same re-elected. 




John Cook, 


1641 


John Atwood, 




John Winslow. 




Wilham Paddy, 


1655 


John Rowland, 




John Jenney, 




John Dunham, 




John Rowland. 




John Cook, 


1642 


John Doane, 




Thomas Clark. 




John Cook. 


1656 


William Bradford, 


1643 


The same re-elected. 




Robert Finney, 


1644 


The same re-elected. 




Ephraim Morton. 


1645 


WilUam Paddy, 


1657 


****:*# 




John Cook, 


1658 


Robert Finney, 




Manasseh Kempton, 




John Rowland, 




John Dunham, senior. 




Nathaniel Warren. 


1646 


John Rowland, 


163^ 


Robert Finney, 




John Cook, 




Nathaniel Warren, 




Manasseh Kempton, 




John Dunham, 




John Dunham. 




Ephraim Morton. 


1647 


John Rowland, 


1660 


John Dunham, 




John Dunham, 




Robert Finney, 




William Paddy, 




Ephraim Morton, 




John Rust. 




Manasseh Kempton 


1648 


The same, except M. 


1661 


John Dunham, 




Kempton in the place of 




Ephraim Morton, 




Rust. 




John Rowland, 


1649 


John Rowland, 




Nathaniel Warren. 




John Dunham, 


1662 


John Dunham, 




William Paddy, 




Ephraim Morton, 




Manasseh Kempton. 




Robert Finney, 


1650 


John Rowland, 




John Morton. 




John Dunham, 


1663 


Robert Finney, 




Manasseh Kempton. 




Ephraim Morton, 


1651 


John Rowland, 




John Rowland, 




Manasseh Kempton, 




Nathaniel Warren. 




Thomas Southworth, 


1664 


Robert Finney, 




Thomas Clark. 




Ephraim Morton, 


1652 


John Rowland, 




John Dunham, 




John Wilson, 




Nathaniel Warren. 




John Dunham, 


1665 


Ephraim Morton, 




Thomas Southworth. 




Nathaniel Warren. 


1653 


John Rowland, 


1666 


Ephraim Morton, 




Lieutenant Southworth, 




John Rowland. 




John Dunham, 


1667 


Same as last year. 




John Cook. 


1668 


Ephraim Morton, 


1654 


John Rowland, 




Samuel Dunham. 




Lieut. Thomas South- 


1669 


Ephraim Morton, 




worth, 




Robert Finney. 



1692] 



HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 



16S 



1670 


Ephraim Morton, 






John Rowland. 


1678 


1671 


Ephraim Morton^ 






Robert Finney. 


1679 


1672 


The same. 




1673 


Ephraim Morton, 
Mr. S. Crow. 


1680 


1674 


Ephraim Morton, 


1681 




William Clark. 




1675 


Lieut. Ephraim Morton, 


1682 


Sergeant William Harlow. 


1683 


1676 


Ephraim Morton, 


1684 




Edward Gray. 


1685 


1677 


Edward Gray, 


1686 



Joseph Howland. 
Ephraim Morton, 
Joseph Howland. 
Ephraim Morton, 
Edward Gray. 
Ephraim Morton, 
William Clark. 
Ephraim Morton, 
Joseph Warren. 
Same as last year. 
Same re-elected. 
Same re-elected. 
Same re-elected. 
Same re-elected. 



The following were the Town Clerks of Plymouth to the 
present time. 

Nathaniel Morton from 1679 to 1685. 

Thomas Faunce from 1685 to 1723. - 7 7'^^*-^ 

John Dyer from 1723 to 1731, and from 1733 to 1738. 

Gershom Foster 1732. 

Edward Winslow 1740 and 1741. 

Samuel Bartlett from 1742 to 17G5. 

John Cotton 1766. 

Ephraim Spooner from 1767 to 1818. 

Thomas Drew from 1818. 

The proper bounds of Plymouth township, according to the 
patent, extended southward to the bounds of Sandwich town- 
ship, and northward to a little brook running from Stephen 
Tracy's to another little brook falling into black water from the 
commons left to Duxbury, and westward eight miles up into the 
lands from any part of the bay or sea; * always provided that 
the said bounds shall extend so far up into the wood lands as to 
include the south meadows towards Agawam, lately discovered, 
and the convenient uplands there-abouts.* 

The first division of lands made by the settlers was in the 
year 1623, when they granted to each Free-holder a house lot, 
of from one to seven acres: in proportion to the number in each 
family. These lots were located on both sides of the town brook 
and consisted mostly of cleared land, being the ancient Indian 
corn land. The second division of land, was agreed on January 
3d, 1627, when each free-holder was granted a 20 acre lot, 
which was mostly laid out near the centre of the town, but some 
lots were at Eel river, for the convenience of the inhabitants lo- 
cated there. After the grants of the first 20 acre lots, from 



164 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. * [1692 

the year 1636 to 1650 lands were granted and laid out in differ- 
ent parts of the town, in lots from 5 to 100 acres, to freemen, 
and from 1636 to 1680, lands were granted and laid out in al- 
most every part of the colony, from 50 to 500 acres, before the 
incorporation of towns, and most of the salt meadows were also 
granted in divided lots. In 1640, Jones's river meadow was 
granted to 8 men. This meadow lies in the northeasterly part 
of Plympton, and south-easterly part of Kingston. The same 
year, the south meadows in the southerly part of Carver, were 
granted to 18 men, and Doten's meadow, situated in the north- 
westerly part of Carver, was granted to 5 men. In town- 
meeting, February 9th, 1701, the inhabitants voted, that each 
and every proprietor of said town shall have a 30 acre lot, out 
of the common lands belonging to the town. At this time there 
were 201 proprietors in the township. In 1701-2, it was voted 
in town-meeting, that a mile and a half from the water side up 
into the woods, from John Cobb's to Joseph Churchill's land, 
shall lye common, for the use of the town. The true bounds of 
this common were from the centre of the town by the shore 
three quarters of a mile northerly, thence south west a mile and 
a half into the woods, thence east a mile and a half crossing 
Billington sea and south pond, thence north easterly a mile and 
a half to the sea shore, thence north-westerly by the shore three 
quarters of a mile to the first bounds. In 1702, it was voted 
that all the cedar swamp throughout the township should be di- 
vided and laid out, according to the directions following, that is 
to say, all old proprietors and other inhabitants of the age of 21 
years that are free-holders and house keepers born within the 
town, shall have each of them, a full share. Other inhabitants 
male children born in the town, and who now reside in it, and 
have arrived at the age of 21 years, shall have, each, half a 
share. All such inhabitants as succeed any of the ancient pro- 
prietors to have a full share, unless such ancient inhabitants 
have a son come in upon his father's right, and no person shall 
have more than a single share, though he may have more old 
proprietor's rights than one. The children of persons who are 
dead, and under the age of 21 years, shall have the right that 
was their father's, but no person, upon any pretence, whatever, 
shall have any share unless he reside now in the town. All the 
cedar swamps in the ancient town of Plymouth were surveyed, 
planned, and divided into 39 great lots, in 1703 and 1705, and 
the proprietors drew lots for their shares. In 1706, at a town- 
meeting, Plympton was set off from Plymouth and made a town- 
ship, and the proprietors of both towns were styled the proprietory 
of Plymouth and Plympton. At a meeting of the proprietors 



1692] HISTORY OF TLYMOUTH. 165 

Februry 9th, 1709, it was voted that all the common lands not 
before granted, should be laid out in ten great lots, and the sur- 
veyors to determine how many shares shall be in each lot. 
These ten great lots contained more than 30,000 acres. There 
were 21 proprietors to the first great lot. At a proprietor's 
meeting in May, 1712, they granted on the petition of some In- 
dians, 200 acres of proprietors' land at Fresh Pond, in Monument 
ponds parish, to be under the particular care and direction of 
the selectmen of the town. The town sold 100 acres of this 
land in the year 1800. 

Census of the town of Plymouth at early periods, 1643, Males 
from 16 to 60 years, capable of bearing arms, 146. 

1646. Freemen and townsmen (voters,) 79. 

1670. Freemen, 51. 

1683-4. Freemen, 55. 

1689. Freemen, 75. 

There is a melancholy grandeur in contemplating the extinc- 
tion of this novel and primitive government which was founded 
and continued in existence under circumstances without a paral- 
lel in the annals of history, for a period of 71 years, presenting 
to the world an illustrious example of sacrifices cheerfully made 
in behalf of the highest blessings, — christian and civil liberty, 
and equality. 

I cannot omit to introduce here the noble pariot sentiments 
of the late excellent President Dwight, who expresses himself 
in the following eloquent language.* ' Plymouth was the first 
town built in New England by civilized man; and those by whom 
it was built were inferior in worth to no body of men, whose 
names are recorded in history during the last seventeen hun- 
dred years. A kind of venerableness, arising from these facts, 
attaches to this town, which may be termed a prejudice. Still, 
it has its foundation in the nature of man, and will never be 
eradicated either by philosophy or ridicule. No New-England- 
er, who is willing to indulge his native feelings, can stand upon 
the rock, where our ancestors set the first foot after their arrival 
on the American shore, without experiencing emotions very 
different from those which are excited by any common object 

* President Dwight, formerly of Yale College, undertook a trav- 
elling excursion through New England and New York, at the early 
part of the present century. He estimated the extent of his labors 
at 15,000 miles. In 1822, he published, in four octavo volumes, the 
result of his observations. On the subjects of antiquity he dwelt 
with unceasing enthusiasm, and his volumes are replete with histor- 
ical, statistical, religious, moral and philosophical information, and 
anecdotes of unrivalled interest and utility. 



166 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1692 

of the same nature. No New Englander could be willing to 
have that rock buried and forgotten. Let him reason as much, 
as coldly, and as ingeniously as he pleases, he will still regard 
that spot with emotions wholly different from those which are 
excited by other places of equal or even superior importance. 
For myself, I cannot wish this trait in the human character ob- 
literated. In a higher state of being, where truth is universal- 
ly as well as cordially embraced, and virtue controls without a 
rival, this prejudice, if it must be called by that name, will be- 
come useless, and may, therefore, be safely discarded. But in 
our present condition every attachment, which is innocent, has 
its use, and contributes both to fix and to soflen man.' Speak- 
ing of our ancestors, he says, ' But when I call to mind the his- 
tory of their sufferings on both sides of the Atlantic, when I re- 
member their pre-eminent patience, their unspotted piety, their 
immoveable fortitude, their undaunted resolution, their love to 
each other, their justice and humanity to the savages and their 
freedom from all those stains which elsewhere spotted the char- 
acter even of their companions in affliction, I cannot but view 
them as illustrious brothers, claiming the veneration and ap- 
plause of all their posterity. By me the names of Carver, 
Bradford, Cushman, and Standish, will never be forgotten, until 
I lose the power of recollection.' * * * 

^ The institutions, civil, literary and" religious, by which New 
England is distinguished on this side the Atlantic, began here. 
Here the manner of holding lands in free soccage, now univer- 
sal in this country, commenced. Here the right of suffrage 
was imparted to every citizen, to every inhabitant not disqualifi- 
ed by poverty or vice. Here was formed the first establishment 
of towns, of the local legislature, which is called a town meet- 
ing, and of the peculiar town executive, styled the selectmen. 
Here the first parochial school was set up, and the system origi- 
nated for communicating to every child in the community the 
knowledge of reading, writing, and arithmetic. Here, also, 
the first building was erected for the worship of God; the first 
religious assembly gathered; and the first minister called and 
settled, by the voice of the church and congregation. On these 
simple foundations has since been erected a structure of good 
order, peace, liberty, knowledge, morals and religion, with 
which nothing on this side the Atlantic can bear a remote com- 
parison. 



END OF P.iRT FIRST. 



1693 & 96] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 167 

PART II. 

Having closed the first part of our history, and shown that 
the primitive colonial charter and government were abrogated 
in 1692, we now commence a new epoch, and our future details 
will pertain to the town as a constituent of the British Province 
of Massachusetts Bay, and after our Independence in 1776 a 
prouder and more glorious designation, the United States of 
America. By the new charter the Province embraced the whole 
of old Massachusetts colony, to which were added the colony 
of Plymouth, the Province of Maine, the Province of Nova- 
Scotia, and all the country between the Province of Maine and 
Nova-Scotia ; also Elizabeth island and the islands of Nan- 
tucket and Martha's Vineyard. 

The representative from Plymouth to the General Court in 
1693 was John Nelson, and in 1694 William Shurtleff. 

1696. — A Frenchprivateer, fitted out atBourdeaux, cruising 
on the American coast, was wrecked in Buzzard's Bay. The 
crew were carried prisoners to Boston ; the surgeon, Dr. Fran- 
cis LeBaron, came to Plymouth, and having performed a surgi- 
cal operation, and the town being at that time destitute of a 
physician, the selectmen petitioned the executive, Lieut. Gover- 
nor Stoughton, for his liberation, that he might settle in this 
town. This was granted, and he married Mary Wilder, and 
practised physic here during life, but died in 1704, at the early 
age of 36 years. Dr. LeBaron did not relinquish the Roman 
Catholic Religion, and was so strongly attached to the cross-, 
that he never retired to rest without placing it on his breast. 

This constantly reminded the people of a religion which they 
abhorred, and which they were scarcely willing to tolerate in a 
single instance. He made a donation of ninety acres of wood 
land to the town. His sen, Lazarus, studied medicine, and en- 
joyed an extensive course of practice in Plymouth and its vicin- 
ity, and died lamented in 1773, aged 75 years. Two of his sons, 
Joseph and Lazarus, were also physicians, both of whom, after 
residing a short period in the West Indies returned to their na- 
tive town, where they died, as did three other of his sons, viz. 
Bartlett, WilUam and Isaac. The only surviving son is Rev. 
Lemuel LeBaron, minister of a church and society at Matta- 
poiset, (Rochester,) where he was ordained in 1772. From 
this stock, all that bear the name of LeBaron in this country 
are descended, and they are numerous and respectable. 



168 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1697, 98, 1701 

The town agreed to pay to Rev. Mr. Cotton £75 in silver 
money for his salary the present year, with which he was well 
satisfied. They agreed also to pay the school-master £33, and 
to the French Doctor for cunng Hunter's wife, £5. 

1697. — March 24. Died, Thomas Clark, aged 98 years. It 
is a well received tradition that this ancient man was the mate 
of the Mayflower, and the one who first landed on the Island in 
Plymouth harbor which bears his name. Little is known of the 
life and circumstances of the mate of the Mayflower; his name 
is not among the signers of the original compact, nor mention- 
ed among the first settlers. It may therefore be conjectured, 
that he was considered merely as an officer of the ship, and 
that he returned to England in her with Captain Jones, and 
subsequently came over and settled in this town. We find his 
name among those who received allotments of land in 1624; 
and he also shared in the division of cattle in 1627. He resid- 
ed at Eel River, and it is supposed that his family were among 
the sufferers in the house of William Clark, when attacked by 
a party of savages, March 12, 1676. He being himself absent 
at meeting escaped, while eleven others were massacred and 
his son tomahawked, who ever after wore a silver plate on his 
head from which he was called silver head Tom. See page 
390. Numerous lineal descendants from Thomas Clark now 
reside at Eel river in this town, and in other parts of the Old 
Colony. There is a handsome China mug whose pedigree is 
traced through the Clark family back to Thomas Clark, which 
had been presented to the cabinet of the Pilgrim Society by 
Betsey B. Morton a descendant, and also a leathern pocket- 
book with the initials T. C. impressed on its cover, presented 
by Amasa Clark. These relicts afford additional evidence that 
the mate of the Mayflower died in this town, and that his ashes 
rest in the grave in our burial place designated by a stone with 
the following inscription. Here lyes ye body of Mr. Thomas 
Clark, aged 98 years. Departed this life March 24, 1697. 

1693, — The town agreed with Abraham Jackson to ring the 
bell and sweep the meeting-house and see to locking the doors 
and fastening the windows for one year, for one pound and ten 
shillings. 

1701, — A canal or water course, was cut, to convey the 
water from South Pond to the head of Eel river, about half a 
mile distant, the object being to form an artificial passage for 
alewives from the sea into the pond; but the project proved un- 
successful. Elder Faunce was the leader in this project, and 
as the water course crosses the road, we are, in passing, re- 
minded of the venerable man whom we delight to bring to re- 
collection. 



1702-11] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 169 

1702-3. Liberty was granted to Major John Bradford to 
milk the pine trees upon the town's common, from the head of 
Blackwater, and from Duxbury bounds to Jones's river; he had 
liberty to employ two strangers, lately come from the westward, 
upon said commons within said limits, ' upon condition that said 
Bradford doth give in bonds to the selectmen to secure the town 
from any charge that may fall on said town by said persons, and 
do also instruct any of the inhabitants in what skill said strangers 
hath in milking the pines so far as they are capable of instruct- 
ing in said art. This year, ministerial lands, a burial ground, 
and a training field, were laid out, at a place called the upper 
society. The south part was then called Samson's country, 
from a noted Sachem who resided there. 

1706. — Plympton set off from Plymouth. The north western 
parish of Plymouth was incorporated November 26, 1695. At 
a town-meeting March 1706-7, it was voted that the to wn^ con- 
sent that the north parish be a township, in compliance with 
their petition to the town, with this proviso, that all real estate 
now belonging to, or which shall be improved by any in the old 
town, either by himself or tenant during their living here, shall 
berated here, notwithstanding there being a separate town, 
and so the like of any estate that belongeth to any of them that 
lyeth in the old town of Plymouth, 

1707. — The town was presented at the quarter sessions held 
at Plymouth on the third Tuesday of December, for their neglect 
in not keeping the bridge over Jones's river in repair; the town 
in full meeting voted that it is a great burden and charge to 
maintain two bridges over the said river when one might answer, 
that application be made to the county court, and to the court 
of the county of Barnstable, who are equally concerned in 
keeping the said bridge in repair, that a bridge might be built 
higher up the river, and they made choice of James Warren 
and Nathaniel Thomas, Jr. as the town agents, for the purpose 
of negotiating the business.* 

1710-11. — March 21st, in town-meeting, it was voted, that 
all the land lying to the northward of the range of the land be- 
tween Samuel Harlow's and John Barnes's, that is to say, to 
run up the same point of compass said range .of Harlow's and 

* Jones^'s river crosses the public road at the south part of Kings- 
ton, and, as is supposed, received its name from Captain Jones of the 
Mayflower. In exploring the neighboring lands and streams, this 
river was discovered ', at which time, it is probable, the name which 
it bears was given to it in compUment to the captain. As the county 
of Barnstable was, for many years, included in the Old Colony of 
Plymouth, it was equally concerned in maintaining the roads and 
bridges throughout the colony. ^ 



170 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1711-16 

Barnes's to the top of the hill, and all the land to the northward 
of that range shall be for a perpetual common or training place, 
iiever to be granted any part thereof, but lay perpetually for the 
public and common benefit. 

1711. — A plan for forming an oyster bed in Plymouth harbor 
Was projected by a company of thirty-one persons, whose names 
are on record. Oysters were procured and deposited in a cer- 
tain place, deemed the most eligible, with the hope that they* 
might be thus propagated; but it was ascertained by the experi- 
ment, that the flats are left dry too long for their habit, which 
requires that they be covered at all times by water. 

1715.-^March 21, at a town-meeting it was proposed to 
build a cart bridge over Jones's river, near Jacob Cook's. Ma- 
jor John Bradford proposed to give towards the building said 
bridge what stone were on his land that were suitable for said 
work„and set his hand thereunto. Jacob Cook likewise offered 
that those that did the said work should have the stones they 
could get off his land, in case they would take as many loads of 
cobbling stones as of binding stones for said work; Jacob Mitch- 
ell also made the same offer. The town voted to build a cart 
bridge over the said river, and chose agents to have the work 
executed. This year died James Warren, Esq. He was taken 
suddenly ill as he was going to the general assembly. He was 
a gentleman of great integrity and capacity, was sheriff of the 
county, and held other responsible offices. He left a son, 
James Warren, of Plymouth. 

1716. — Sundry inhabitants of the north part of the town near 
Jones's river, petitioned to be set off a town, which was nega- 
tived by a large majority, and Major John Bradford and others 
were chosen to appear in the general court to show the town's 
reasons for opposing the petition. In 1717, they renewed their 
request, and being 48 families, they were set off as a separate 
parish, by the name of Jones's river parish. 

March 1. — The town agreed with John Bradford, Uo take 
care and keep in good repair all hghways throughout the town- 
ship of Plymouth, and to save the said town harmless from all 
trouble that may arise through the defect of any of the high- 
ways in said town, for the space of seven years, commencing 
from the day of date abovesaid, for twelve pence a man to be 
raised by rate upon the inhabitants of said town that are of able 
body, by law, to work at the highways, and is to be paid to said 
Bradford, his heirs or assigns yearly and every year during the 
said term of seven years above mentioned.' 

Mr. Nathaniel Thomas and Mr. Abiel Shurtleff were chosen 
\o meet agents from Barnstable, to agree in what manner to re- 
build the bridge over Eel river. And the same persons were a 



1718-24] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 171 

committee to inquire into the reasons why the heirs of Dr. Fran^ 
cis LeBaron have delayed to convey to the town the ninety 
acres of land which the Doctor gave to the towq^ for the vise of 
the poor. 

1718. — Complaints being made that the people suffer greatly 
by means of their corn being ground at the nn\\ by a young lad 
incapable of the business, it was voted that Captain Church, the 
owner of the mill, be informed, that unless he remove the cause 
of complaint, and see that the business of grinding be properly 
attended to, the town will grant liberty to son^e other person to 
set up another mill on the town's privilege. 

1721. — The town having suffered great distress by the small 
pox, and that fatal disease being now in the town, a committee 
of twelve persons was chosen to act and advise with the select-, 
men to prevent its spreading. 

1722. — Haveland Torrey was legally chosen constable in full 
town-meeting, but he declared in the meeting that he would 
neither serve the town in that office, nor pay his fine for refus- 
ing, as the law directs. There having been several instances 
of such refusal, the town now made choice of Captain Ephrain^ 
Morton to prosecute the said Torrey at the next court of quarter 
sessions, for his refusing to serve the town. And the next 
year, Haveland Torrey, James Warren, Eleazer Churchill and 
Nicholas Drew refused to serve in the office of constable, and 
all paid their fine of five pounds in the meeting, as the law re- 
quired. 

1722-3. — February. Under this date the following was re- 
corded by Elder Faunce: -This day was a dreadful storm, 
which raised the tide three or four feet higher than had been 
known aforetime.' This is the storm of which Cotton Mather 
gave an account to the Royal Society; says Mr. Samuel Davis, 
it was on the 24th of February. In the year 1770, and again 
in 1785, were similar storms and tides, when the water was level 
nearly with the locks of the store doors on the wharves, and a 
quantity of salt and other goods were damaged. 

1724. — The following is recorded ^n the town's book: 

To the Hon. Isaac Lothrop, Esq. 

Whereas the Province law makes provision that all births and 
deaths shall be registered by the town clerk in the several towns 
within said Province, these are to inform your honor that Josiah 
Sturtevant, of Plymouth, in the county of Plymouth, in New 
England, had a child born, in or about the month of April last 
past, and the said Sturtevant neglecteth to give notice thereof, 
as according to the directions of the law. I do, therefore, pray 
your honor to give forth ^ y(^xxmt \o cau|se said Sturtevant to 



172 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1725-28 

appear before your honor, that he may be dealt withall as ac- 
cording to the directions of the law. 

John Dyer, Toivn Clerk. 
Plymouth, Dec. 30, 1724. 

1725. — Kingston set off from Plymouth. The north or Jones's 
river parish renewed their petition to be set off as a town. It 
was negatived, and three agents were chosen to give in their 
reasons to the general court for their refusal. This petition was 
made a subject of animated discussion, which was continued at 
several town-meetings; and at length the following persons 
were chosen agents in behalf of the town: Josiah Cotton, Esq., 
John Watson, Esq., Mr. John Dyer, John Murdock, Esq., and 
Deacon John Foster. They were directed by the town to op- 
pose to the utmost in their power the prayer of the petitioners 
being granted; but subsequently they were desired to meet a 
committee from the general court at Jones's river to determine 
the question. But the separation was strenuously opposed in 
town-meeting on the 9th of May, 1726. In that year, however, 
the point was decided, and Jones's river parish was incorporated 
by the general court into a town called Kingston. 

In town-meeting, December 25, 1727, a petition was present- 
ed from the town of Kingston requesting the town of Plymouth 
would repair wholly or in conjunction with them the bridge over 
Jones's river, which was rejected. In the same year, the town 
voted that an alms-house be built for the benefit of the poor of 
the town, and a committee was chosen to advise with the select- 
men about building the said house. 

1726. — March 13, voted in the town-meeting, that a reward 
of ten shillings shall be given to any person belonging to the 
town, who shall kill a wild cat within the township; and John 
Watson, Esq. and Mr. John Murdock were appointed to receive 
the heads, and give orders on the treasurer for the payment of 
the money. The next year twelve pounds were paid for wild 
cats' heads. 

1727. — In town-meeting the selectmen with Mr. Watson, Mr. 
Murdock, Mr. John Barnes and Mr. Stephen Churchill were 
chosen a committee to provide a suitable place upon the com- 
mon to erect a gallows for the execution of the condemned 
prisoner, Elizabeth Colson, a mulatto woman, for murdering 
her infant child; and she was executed in May. 

1728. — May 13th, voted that the town will take their propor- 
tionable part of the sixty thousand pounds lately emitted by the 
general court, which is five hundred and eighty three pounds and 
five shillings, and that it be let out to the inhabitants of the 
town, on personal security to the trustees with a sufl[icient surety, 



1729-35] ttisTORV 0$* ^LVmOutH. 173 

and to have it at 6 per cent, per ann. No person to have more 
than 30 nor less than 20 pounds. The money to be let out ac- 
cording to the discretion of the trustees, who are to be allowed 
ten shillings for letting out, and twenty for receiving in every 
hundred pounds. 

1729. — It was voted that every householder shall be provided 
with a ladder reaching from the ground to the ridge-pole of his 
house, and have a hogshead full of water in his yard, in case of 
fire. 

1730. — The alewive fishery at the brook in this town, had 
long been considered as of considerable importance, and proper 
regulations were from time to time provided to prevent the 
destruction of the fish. This year it was ordered, that, in order 
to prevent obstructions to the ale wives going up the pond to 
spawn, no person shall take more fish from the town brook, 
or Agawam river, than are absolutely necessary for their fami- 
lies' use, and no person to take any for a market, on a penalty 
of 20 shillings for each barrel. A committee was appointed to 
see that families were reasonably provided for, and the poor 
supplied. 

1731. — November 9. The inhabitants of Monument Ponds 
petitioned to be set off* as a parish, and after due consideration, 
it was voted December 9th, that the inhabitants of Monument 
Ponds be a separate pari&h, and their bounds were surveyed and 
described accordingly. 

A mortal fever prevailed in Plymouth; there was an instance 
of eight in the connexion of one family who died at that time. 

1731-2. — John Watson, Esq. expired September 9th, aged- 
about 43 years. He was a useful and respectable inhabitant of 
the town, transacting much business, and affording employ- 
ment to a large number of poor people. He was supposed to 
possess the largest estate of any person in the county, and was 
charitable to the poor and destitute. Mr. John Watson, son of 
the above, died in January, 1753, at the early age of 37 years; 
and his wife having died before, they left three orphan children, 
two sons and a daughter. One of' the sons was the late John 
Watson, Esq., the second President of the Pilgrim Society. 

The town voted, this year, to choose a committee to procure 
a new bell, the old one being cracked. It was agreed that the 
bell should weigh about 300 pounds, and at the meeting, John 
Murdock, Esq. offered to give the town 50 pounds weight in the 
bell, in addition to what the town had voted. 

The following mark of a run-away whale was recorded by 
Benjamin Rider. 

The said whale was struck by Joseph Sachemus, Indian, at 
Monument Ponds, November 25th, 1735. There were several 
15* 



174 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1738-42 

irons put into her; one was a backward iron on her left side, 
and two irons on her right side. The iron on the left side was 
broke about six inches from the socket. She carried away one 
short warp with a drag to it, and a long warp without a buoy; 
one of the drag staves was made with white birch, Slc. 

1738. — May 8th. The inhabitants of Agawam, within the 
township of Plymouth, petitioned to be a separate parish, which 
was granted, and at a town-meeting, March 1st, 1738-9, it was 
voted that the plantation at Agawam, with all the inhabitants 
thereon, be set off from this town, and be a township, adjoining 
the easterly part of Rochester, according to their purchase deed 
from the town of Plymouth. This is now Wareham. 

The town voted that three pence per head, shall be paid out 
of the town Treasury for every full grown rat that may be kill- 
ed in the town, three pence for every black bird, and six pence 
for every crow. And in 1744, a vote passed, that every male 
head of a family shall procure ten grown rats' heads, or ten 
black birds' heads, and each male head of a family who shall 
fail, shall be assessed the sum of six pence, old tenor, per head, 
for each head that he shall fall short of said number, and the 
assessors are ordered to add each delinquent's fine to his next 
town tax. 

A man named Crimble was indicted at Plymouth for forging a 
bond, but for want of evidence, was only convicted for a cheatj 
and was ordered to wear said bond, with a piece of paper over 
it, with the word cheat written thereon; and to stand on the court- 
house steps half an hour. This year square-toed shoes went 
out of fashion, and buckles began to be worn. 

A blacksmith while working at his forge was sportively beset 
by a young man, and the smith unfortunately struck him with a 
hot iron, which wounded the jugular vein, (it must have been 
the carotid artery,) so that he bled to death in six minutes. 

1741. — On the Sabbath, March 30th, the town of Plymouth 
was alarmed during divine service, by Joseph Wampum, a na- 
tive, who gave information that eight Spaniards had landed at 
his house, situated four miles distant from Buzzard's Bay. War 
existed at that time between England and Spain. This informa- 
tion, therefore, justly excited an universal panic. The drums 
beat to arms, and the militia were ordered out, but it proved to 
be a false alarm, and was ever after called Wampum's war. 

1742. — The General Court granted a sum of money to the 
town of Plymouth for the purpose of erecting a battery or breast 
work, and the town chose a committee consisting of 18 persons, 
to determine and report as to the most suitable place for the 
said battery. The committee reported in favor of Cole's hill, 
and the town accepted the report. 



1745-48] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 175 

1745. — This year a full company of soldiers, of which Sylva- 
nus Cobb was captain, ^as raised in Plymouth for the expedi- 
tion against Louisbourg; and it was remarked that they were 
the first for that service who appeared at Boston^ whence they 
embarked and served with credit on that memorable occasion. 
Ca.ptain Cobb continued in public service in Nova Scotia, and, 
in 1758, was selected by general Monckton to conduct general 
Wolfe to a reconnoitre of the fortress, previous to its capture. 
As they sailed into the harbor, no one was allowed to stand on 
deck, but Cobb at the helm, and Wolfe in the fore-sheet making 
observations, while the shot were flying thick around. Gene- 
ral Wolfe observed that they had approached as near as he wish- 
ed for his purpose, but Cobb made yet another tack, and, as 
they hove about, Wolfe exclaimed with approbation, 'Well, 
Cobb! I shall never doubt but you will carry me near enough.' 
Captain Cobb returned to Plymouth, and afterwards removed 
to Nova Scotia, and was employed on the expedition to Havana 
in 1762, where he died. 

1748. — The town voted to give JE300 old tenor* more than 
their proportion towards building a new court house, provided 
the town may have the use of the said house for the purpose of 
transacting the town's business so long as the house shall stand; 
and at a subsequent meeting it was agreed to add d£700 old 
tenor to the above sum, for the same purpose, on the condition 
that the house be immediately built, and that the town shall have 
the benefit as above. Accordingly, in 1759, a court house was 
erected in Plymouth, near the meeting house. It was planned 
by the late Judge Oliver, of Middleborough. The front door 
was originally at the east end, with a handsome flight of steps. 
When the door was altered, a market place was made under the 
cast end of the house. When the new brick court house was 
erected, in 1818, the town of Plymouth purchased of the coun- 
ty, the old court house, which is now used for a town house. 

Died, in this town, greatly lamented, Isaac Lothrop, Esq., at 
the age of forty -three. He was one of the justices of the Court 
of Common Pleas, and his death occasioned a general gloom in 
the town and throughout the county. At the opening of the 
next court. May 15, Nicholas Sever, Esq., chief justice, and 
Peter Oliver, Esq., one of the justices of the said court, both ex- 
pressed from the bench the grief and sorrow with which the 
court and bar were affected by the melancholy event, and ob- 
served that colonel Lothrop was held in profound regard as a 

* The difference in value between sterling and the Boston old 
tenor, is as one to ten ; one shilling sterling being equal to ten shil- 
lings old tenor. 



176 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 1755-8 

judge, and was greatly respected for his moral and christian 
virtues. He possessed a large estate, and transacted extensive 
business in the mercantile line, in which he sustained an honor- 
able and upright character. Few men have been more affection- 
ately beloved, nor any whose death could diffuse more heartfelt 
sorrow among the poor, and in every social circle. The fol- 
lowing inscription is found on his tomb-stone: 

Had virtue^s charms the power to save 
Its faithful votaries from the grave, 
This stone had ne'er possessed the fame 
Of being marked with Lothrcp's name. 

The children of Mr. Lothrop and Priscilla his wife, were, 
Isaac, born 1735, died 1808. 
Nathaniel, 1737, died 1828. 
Thomas, 1739, died 1794. 
Caleb, 1742, died abroad 1766. 

Priscilla, 1747, married Mr. Burr, died 1810. 

An excise act, laying a duty on wine and spirits consumed in 
private families, was passed by the legislature, and governor 
Shirley suspended his assent; for which an address of thanks 
was voted to him by the town. 

1755. — Nov. 18, there was a terrible earthquake in America, 
the shock was the most violent that was ever kuDwn in the 
country. A spring in the northwest part of the town, in the pub- 
lic road, was removed from the east to the west side of the road, 
where it still continues an overflowing stream. Tincker^s rock 
spring, was its ancient name; the rock is now blown up. This 
is the well known spring about half a mile on the Kingston road, 
near Nelson'^s house. John Murdock, Esq. was a wealthy and 
respectable merchant in this town. He was from Scotland, and 
married here about 1686, and, again, a second wife, about the 
year 1719, Phebe Morton, a daughter of John Morton, of Mid- 
dleborough. An only daughter (Phebe) of this marriage be- 
came the wife of William Bowdoin, of Boston, a brother of 
governor Bowdoin. An intimacy subsisted many years between 
Mr. Murdock and the father of governor Bowdoin, who was in 
the habit of making him an annual visit at Plymouth. 

Mr. Murdock, in his will, dated February 7, 1756, gave to 
the town of Plymouth £100 lawful money for the use of the 
poor of said town, and £100 for the use of the schools of said 
town, and also £100 to the third parish of said town, providing 
in the will that the capital of each of these sums should not be 
lessened, but always kept good, the interest to be appropriated 
as above; and if these directions should not be observed, then 
the money to revert to his son, John Murdock, his heirs, &c. 



1758-60] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ^'^^ 

1758.—In 1758, the town chose a committee to devise means 
of paving the public streets in Plymouth, but the project failed 
of success. 

Hod.— Bridge over the town brook. The bridge over the town 
brook at the shore, now Water Street, was, till this year, only 
a swing bridge for foot passengers; but the town now resolved, 
^ that there shall be a substantial bridge and cart cause-way, 20 
feet wide, and high enough to be out of the reach of ordmary 
tides, and that the town will grant all the town's land, beach, 
dockage, and flats, in that place, to any person or persons who 
will build a good bridge over the said brook, and keep and 
maintain it, in good repair, for the convenience of the town 
forever; and that in default herein, it shall be lawful for the 
said town to enter upon the said granted premises, as in their 
own right, and hold the same as fully and completely as though 
no such grant had been made.' A committee, consisting of 
Thomas Foster, James Warren, George W^atson, Joseph Bart- 
lett, and James Hovey, were appointed, and authorised to tran- 
sact this business in behalf of the town. March 1762, the town 
accepted the bridge and wharf built by Thomas Foster and his 
associates, and directed the committee to give a deed of con- 
veyance of the land, &c. above specified, under the restrictions 
and limitations mentioned. In May, 1762, David Turner, Na- 
thaniel Foster, and Thomas Davis gave, each of them, a piece 
of land to the town, 20 feet wide, near the bridge, to be kept 
and used for the accommodation of the public, so long as the 
bridge and wharf shall be kept as a public road. < 

The names of the two following gentlemen deserve to he re- 
corded in this place. The Hon. Josiah Cotton was son of John 
Cotton, some time minister of Plymouth, and grandson of John 
Cotton, minister in Boston. He was born in Plymouth, Jan. 
8th, 16.79, and graduated at Harvard College in 1698, and be- 
came a teacher of a school in Marblehead, in October follow- 
ing, where he preached his first sermon, September, 1702. In 
1704, he discontinued preaching and returned to his native town, 
Avhere he was a school instriicter for seven years. This res- 
pectable man held, at different times, several civil offices in 
the county, as clerk of the Inferior Court of Common Pleas, 
Justice of the same court, Register of Probate, and Register of 
Deeds. He was also occasionally employed as a preacher to the 
Indians in Plymouth and the vicinity, having acquired a com- 
petent acquaintance with their language. He was the author 
of the Supplement to the New England'sMemorial. He left a 
Diary, which be began soon after he left college, and continued 
nearly to the time of his decease. It is in the possession of 
his grandson, Rossetter Cotton, Esq. the present Register of 



178 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1761-5 

Deeds for the county of Plymouth. It contains many historical 
facts, which it would be desirable to have extracted and pre- 
sented to the Massachusetts Historical, or to the Pilgrim Soci- 
ety, for preservation. Mr. Cotton died in 1756, aged 76 years, 
leaving a numerous progeny. He possessed a strong and sound 
mind, and was fervently pious, and indefatigable in the dis- 
charge of all the duties of his various and honorable stations 
in life: 

John Cotton, Esq. son of the above, was born April, 1712, 
graduated at Harvard College, 1730, and was ordained minister 
at Halifax, county of Plymouth, October, 1736. From an in- 
disposition, which greatly affected his voice, he requested and 
received his dismission in 1756. He succeeded his father in 
the office of Register of Deeds, which he held until his decease, 
which took place Nov. 4th, 1789, in the 78th year of his age. 
He was considered an able theologian, and his pulpit perform- 
ances were much esteemed by judicious auditors. He was the 
author of the valuable Account of Plymouth Church, appended 
to the sermon preached at the ordination of Rev. Chandler 
Robbins, in 1760. This account was republished in the 4th 
vol. of the Collections of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 
and has been resorted to by the author of the present work. — 
He published, also, seasonable warnings to the churches of 
New England, and tracts on Infant Baptism, and several occa- 
sional sermons. He was chosen by the town, delegate to the 
convention for forming a constitution for the Commonwealth, in 
the year 1780, and was one of the committee for the county to 
draft the constitution. He left sons and daughters. Josiah, the 
eldest, was the minister at Wareham, and afterwards a magis- 
trate and clerk of the court for the county of Plymouth. He 
died April, 1819, aged 71, leaving one son, who is a physician 
in the state of Ohio, and one daughter who is the wife of Isaac 
L. Hedge, Esq. of this town. Two other sons of John Cotton, 
are Rossetter, the present Register of Deeds for the county, 
and Ward, minister of Boylston. His son, John, was lost at 
sea in the year 1800, leaving a widow and two daughters. 

1761. — March 12th. Two shocks of an earthquake were 
felt throughout New England. 

1764. — This year, the people in the New England Provinces 
began to manifest considerable alarm at the measures of the 
British administration, founded on their claims to make laws, 
and levy taxes on the people without their consent. 

1665. — A Stamp Jict having passed the British Parliament, 
the greatest excitement was created throughout the American 
colonies. The inhabitants of this town participated in the pa- 
triotic spirit, and resolved to unite in the general opposition t» 



1767] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 179 

the obnoxious measure.* In town meeting, October 14th, it 
was voted to instruct their representative to the general court, 
to represent the feelings and sentiments of the inhabitants as 
most decidedly opposed to any tax in the form of stamps or 
stamp acts, and to exert his influence against the execution of 
the stamp act. The instructions teem with patriotic ardor, 
calling to mind that they inhabit the spot where our ancestors 
founded an asylum for liberty. *We likewise,' say the instruc- 
tions, ' to avoid disgracing the memories of our ancestors, as 
well as the reproaches of our own consciences and the curses 
of posterity, recommend it to you to obtain, if possible, in the 
honorable house of representatives in this province, full and 
explicit assertions of our rights, and to have the same entered 
on their public records, that all generations yet to come may 
be convinced that we have not only a just sense of our rights 
and liberties, but that we never (with submission to Divine 
Providence) will be slaves to any power on earth.' The stamp 
act was repealed January 16th, 1766. The town on this passed 
a vote of thanks to the town of Boston for their patriotic mea- 
sures in asserting and defending the precious rights and liber- 
ties of our common country, and the following is the answer to 
the Plymouth address. 

^Boston, March lOth, 1767. — The inhabitants of the town of 
Boston, legally assembled in Faneuil Hall, have received with 
singular pleasure your respectful address of the 16th of Janu^ 
ary last. The warm sentiments of public virtue which you 
therein express is a sufficient evidence, that the most ancient 
town in New England, to whose predecessors this province, in 
a particular manner, is so greatly indebted for their necessary 
aid in its original settlement, still retain the truly noble spirit 
of our renowned ancestors. When we recollect the ardent 
love of religion and liberty which inspired the breasts of those 
worthies, which induced them at a time, when tyranny had laid 
its oppressive hand on church and state in their native country, 
to forsake their fair possessions, and seek a retreat in this dis- 
tant part of the earth; when we reflect upon their early care 
to lay a solid foundation for learning, even in a wilderness, as 
the surest, if not the only means of preserving and cherishing 
the principles of liberty and virtue, and transmitting them to 
us, their posterity, our mind is filled with deep veneration, and 
we bless and revere their memory. When we consider the 
immense cost and pains they were at in subduing, cultivating, 

*By this act a, ream of bail bonds stamped would cost £100; a 
ream of common printed ones before was £15. A ream of stamped 
policies of insurance was £190; of common ones without stamps 
£20. 



180 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1769 

and settling this land, with the utmost peril of their lives, and 
the surprising increase of dominion, strength and riches, which 
have accrued to Great Britain by their expense and labor, we 
confess we feel an honest indignation to think there ever should 
have been any among her sons so ungrateful, as well as unjust 
and ciuel, as to seek their ruin. Instances of this too fre- 
quently occur in the past history of our country. The names 
of Randolph, Andros and others, are handed down to us with 
infamy; and the times in which we live, even these very times, 
may furnish some future historian with a catalogue of those 
who look upon our rising greatness with an envious eye; and 
while we and our sister colonies have been exerting our grow- 
ing strength in the most substantial service to the mother coun- 
try, by art and intrigue have wickedly attempted to seduce her 
into measures to enslave us. If then, gentlemen, the inhabit- 
ants of this metropolis have discovered an invariable attach- 
ment to the principles of liberty, when it has been invaded ; if 
they have made the most vigorous exertions for our country, 
when she has been threatened with the loss of every thing 
that is dear: if they have used their utmost endeavors, that she 
may be relieved from those difficulties with which she is at 
this time embarrassed: if they have taken the warrantable and 
legal measures to prevent that misfortune, of all others the 
most to be dreaded, the execution of tJie stamp act; and as a ne- 
cessary means of preventing it, have made any spirited appli- 
cation for opening the custom-houses and courts of justice; if 
at the same time they have borne their testimony against outra- 
geous tumults and illegal proceedings, and given any examples 
of the love of peace and good order, — next to the conscious- 
ness of having done their duty, is the satisfaction of meeting 
with the approbation of any of their fellow countrymen. That 
the spirit of our venerable forefathers may revive, and be dif- 
fused through every community in this land; that liberty both 
civil and religious, the grand object in view, may still be felt, 
enjoyed, and vindicated by the present generation, and the fair 
inheritance transmitted to our latest posterity, is the fervent 
wish of this metropolis. 

^ San^uel Adams. 

Signed < John Ruddock. 

( John Hancock.' 

1769. — On the 12tk day of May there was a snow storm of 
twelve hours continuance. 

Old Colony Club. — This year seven respectable individuals, 
inhabitants of Plymouth, instituted a social club which they 
style<i as above. They elected an additional number of mem- 
bers, and invited guests were admitted to their meetings. It 



1769] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 181 

was in this club that the custom of solemnizing the anniversary 
of the arrival of our forefathers first originated, and this was 
the principal object of its formation. I shall transcribe for the 
entertainment of my readers, such parts of their records as 
cannot fail of being acceptable. The late Isaac Lothrop, Esq. 
a zealous antiquarian, was their president, and Captain Thomas 
Lothrop, secretary. 

January 16th, 1769. — ' Wc whose names are underwritten, 
having maturely weighed and seriously considered the many 
disadvantages and inconveniences that arise from intermixing 
with the company at the taverns in this town, and apprehend- 
ing that a well regulated club will have a tendency to prevent 
the same, and to increase, not only the pleasure and happiness 
of the respective members, but, also, will conduce to their edi- 
fication and instruction, do hereby incorporate ourselves into a 
society, by the name of the Old Colony Club. For the better 
regulation of which we do consent and agree to observe all 
such rules and laws, as shall from time to time be made by the 
club. Dated at our Hall, in Plymouth, the day and year above 
written. 

Isaac Lothrop. John Thomas. 

Pelham Winslow. Edward Winslow, Jr. 

Thomas Lothrop. John Watson. 

Elkanah Cushman. 
December ISth. — ^At a meeting of the club, voted, that Fri- 
day next be kept by this club in commemoration. of the landins^ 
of our worthy ancestors in this place; that the club dine to- 
gether at Mr. Howland's, and that a number of gentlemen be 
invited to spend the evening with us at the Old Colony Hall. 

Old Colony Day. First Celebration of the Landing of our 
Forefathers. — Friday, December 22. The Old Colony Club, 
agreeably to a vote passed the 18th instant, met, in commemo- 
ration of the landing of their worthy ancestors in this place. 
On the morning of the said day, after discharging a cannon, was 
hoisted upon the hall an elegant silk flag, with the following 
inscription, ' Old Colony.,' 1620, At eleven o'clock, A. M. 
the members of the club appeared at the hall, and from thence 
proceeded to the house of Mr. Howland, inn-holder, which is 
erected upon the spot where the first licensed house in the 
Old Colony formerly stood; at half after two a decent repast 
was served, which consisted of the following dishes, viz. 

1, a large baked Indian whortleberry pudding; 2, a dish of 

sauquetach, (succatach, corn and beans boiled together); 3, 

a dish of clams; 4, a dish of oysters and a dish of cod fish; 5, 

a haunch of ve»isonj roasted by the first Jack brought to th^ 

16 



182 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1769 

colony; 6, a dish of sea fowl; 7, a dish of frost fish and eels; 
8, an apple pie; 9, a course of cranberry tarts, and cheese 
made in the Old Colony. 

These articles were dressed in the plainest manner (all ap- 
pearance of luxury and extravagance being avoided, in imita- 
tion of our ancestors, whose memory we shall ever respect.) 
At 4 o'clock, P. M. the members of our club, headed by the 
steward, carrying a folio volume of the laws of the Old Colony, 
hand in hand marched in procession to the hall. Upon the 
appearance of the procession in front of the hall, a number of 
descendants from the first settlers, in the Old Colony drew up 
in a regular file, and discharged a volley of small arms, suc- 
ceeded by three cheers, which were returned by the club, and 
the gentlemen generously treated. After this, appeared at the 
private grammar school opposite the hall, a number of young 
gentlemen, pupils of Mr. Wadsworth, who, to express their joy 
upon this occasion, and their respect for the memory of their 
ancestors, in the most agreeable manner joined in singing a 
song very applicable to the day. At sunsetting a cannon was 
discharged, and the flag struck. In the evening the hall was 
illuminated, and the following gentlemen, being previously in- 
vited, joined the club, viz. 

Col. George Watson. Capt. Thomas Davis. 
Col. James Warren. Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop. 

James Hovey, Esq. Mr. John Russell. 

Thomas Mayhew, Esq. Mr. Edward Clarke. 
William Watson, Esq. Mr. Alexander Scammeil. 
Capt. Gideon White. Mr. Peleg Wadsworth. 

Capt. Elkanah Watson. Mr. Thomas Southworth How- 
land. 
The president being seated in a large and venerable chair,* 
which was formerly possessed by William Bradford, the sec- 
ond worthy governor of the Old Colony, and presented to the 
club, by our friend Dr. Lazarus Le Baron, of this town, deHv- 
ered several appropriate toasts, j After spending the evening 
in an agreeable manner, in recapitulating and conversing upon 
the many and various advantages of our forefathers in the first 
settlement of this country, and the growth and increase of the 
same, — at eleven o'clock in the evening a cannon was again 

* This ancient chair reverted to the heirs of Dr. Le Baron when 
the club was dissolved, and is now in the family of Nathaniel Rus- 
sell, Esq. 

f One of the toasts was this : — 
" May every eitemy to civil or religious liberty mtJtft the same or a 
worse fate than Archbishop Laud. 



1770] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 183 

fired, three cheers given, and the club and company withdrew. 

1770, December 24. In pursuance of the determination at 
their last meeting, for the purpose of celebrating this 24th day 
of December (the 22d falling on Saturday,) in commemora- 
tion of that period which landed their progenitors safely on this 
American shore, after having endured the persecution of ene- 
mies, the perils of an unknown ocean, the crosses of fortune, 
and innumerable difficulties and hazards attending such emi- 
grants. 

The morning of the day gave such general joy and satis- 
faction to their descendants in this place, that notwithstanding 
the severity of the season, as soon as light appeared a company 
of grateful youths paraded our streets, and, with cannon and 
volleys of small arms, aroused the town from its slumbers. At 
ten o'clock, the members of the club, being joined by Messrs. 
Alexander Scammell and Peleg Wadsworth, B. A., assembled 
at the House of Mr. Howland, an innholder in Plymouth, and 
at twelve, were joined by the following gentlemen, viz. Thomas 
Foster, James Hovey, George Watson, and James Warren, 
Esqrs., Capt. Elkanah Watson and Doctor Nathaniel Lothrop, 
of Plymouth, and the Hon. William Sever, Esq. of Kingston, 
where, after having amused themselves in conversation upon 
the history of emigrant colonies, and the constitution and de- 
clension of empires, ancient and modern, they were served 
with an entertainment, foreign from all kinds of luxury, and 
consiting of fish, flesh, and vegetables, the natural produce of 
this colony ; after which, the company being increased by Ed- 
ward Winslow, Esq., Doctor Lazarus Le Baron, William 
Watson, Esq., Thomas Mayhew, Esq., Deacon John Torry, 
Captain Theophilus Cotton, Captain Abraham Hammett, Mr. 
Ephraim Spooner, and Mr. John Crandon, a number of toasts 
were drank, grateful to the remembrance of our ancestors, and 
loyal to those kings under whose indulgent care this colony 
has flourished and been protected. From which house, the 
club, together with the before mentioned gentlemen, being es- 
corted by a select company, well skilled in the military arts, 
walked in decent procession to Old Colony Hall, in the course 
of which they were met, and attended upon, by a company of 
children from the age of five to the age of twelve, whose nat- 
ural ingenuity and the care and attention of their master, hath 
rendered them almost perfect military disciplinarians, a scene 
that excited the admiration of every spectator. Upon their 
arrival at the door of the hall, the whole company entered the 
room, being introduced by the steward and complimented by 
the club, and the escort, by whom was performed a variety of 
manoeuvres and firings, to the great satisfaction of every per- 



1S4 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1770 

son present * When the sun had set, and the military gentle- 
men had dispersed, the Old Colony flag was struck, the can- 
non fired, and the company in the hall were joined by the Rev. 
Chandler Robbins, pastor of the First Church of Christ in 
Plymouth, 

In order to remind us of the debt of gratitude we owe to our 
God, and to our ancestors, the following words were spoken, 
with modest and decent firmness, by a member of the club, 
(Edward Winslow, Jr. Esq.) 

' When I recollect, that about one century and a half since, 
a few worthies on the Island of Great Britain, persecuted and 
tormented by the wicked aspiring great, for thinking freely, 
and for acting with the same dignity and freedom with which 
they thought, although their sentiments and conduct were con- 
formed to the laws of the society in which they lived, contrary 
to the common cause of suffering humanity, which frequently 
sinks in proportion to the power exerted against it, did dare, in 
defiance of their persecutors, to form themselves into one body 
for the common safety and protection of all, an engagement, 
which though founded on the true and genuine principles of re- 
ligion and virtue, unhappy experience taught them was too 
weak and insecure a barrier against the arts and stratagems of 
such potent adversaries. When we recollect that, under 
these melancholy circumstances, having no other resort to pre- 
serve the purity of their minds, they abandoned their native 
country, their friends, their fortunes, and connexions, and 
transported themselves to the city of Leyden, with the most 
sanguine hopes of a protection which the Island had refused 
to afford them. When we recollect that persecution, from 
another quarter, rendered their situation in the states of Hol- 
land equally as perplexed and disagreeable, — how am I aston- 
ished that such repeated disappointments had not rendered 
them too weak ever to make another attempt. But when we 
view them rising from their misfortunes with tenfold vigor, and, 

* Peleg Wadswortb was a native of Duxbury, graduated at Har- 
vard, 1769. He was for many years a respectable teacher of a 
grammar school in this town ; and in 1775, when minute companies 
were formed, and the manual exercise arrested general attention, 
he devoted much of bis time to the instruction of young men in the 
use of fire-arms, and instilling into the minds of youth a true sense 
and value of liberty and freedom. He was at some period of the 
revolutionary war in military service, and in 1780 appointed to the 
command of a detachment of state troops, in Camden, state of 
Maine. In this situation he was assaulted and captured by the 
British, under circumstances of peril and sufFerinof almost unprece- 
dented. — ^'^e President DwighVi. TvavelSy and Thacher^s Militai-y 
Journal. 



1770} HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 185 

upon the same virtuous principles, crossing the Atlantic with 
the clearest companions of life, their wives, their helpless off- 
spring, exposed to the roughness of the ocean, to the inclem- 
encies of the weather, and all their attendant evils, and landing 
in the tempestuous month of December upon an unknown 
shore, inhabited by men more fierce than beasts of prey, and 
scarcely deserving to be called human, natural enemies to their 
virtue and morality, with whom they are obliged to wage an 
immediate and unequal war for their defence and safety. 
When we view them, under all the disadvantages naturally at- 
tendant upon a state of sickness and poverty, defending them- 
selves against savage cruelties, and still persevering in their 
virtuous resolutions, establishing their religion in this then 
desert, forming a code of laws wisely adapted to their" circum- 
stances, and planting a colony, which, through divine goodness, 
has flourished and become an important branch of that body 
which caused their emigration, — ^liow am I lost in amazement! 
And to what cause can we ascribe these deliverances and sal- 
vation, but to that Almighty being who orders all events for the 
benefit of mankind, whose ways are to us unsearchable, and 
whose doings are past our finding out. 

' Upon a recollection of all these things, it is not to be won- 
dered, that we the sons and descendants from such illustrious 
ancestors, upon this 22d of December, are assembled upon the 
very spot on which they landed, to commemorate this period, 
the most important that the annals of America can boast, a 
period which, I doubt not, every person here present esteems 
an honor, as well as his incumbent duty, gratefully to remem- 
ber; and while we feel for the misfortunes and calamities of 
those, our pious ancestors, the consequences of which to us 
are so delightful and glorious, let us also admire and adore 
their virtue, iheir patience, their fortitude, and their heroism, 
and continue to commemorate it annually. This virtue is un- 
doubtedly rewarded with joys which no tongue can utter, nor 
hath it entered into the heart of man to conceive; and if we, 
their sons, act from the same principles, and conduct with the 
same noble firmness and resolution, when our holy rehgion or 
our civil liberties are invaded, we may expect a reward propor- 
tionate; for such principles render the soul tranquil and easy 
under all the misfortunes and calamities to which human nature 
is exposed, and of him who is possessed by them, the poet with 
propriety says, 

"Should the whole frame of nature round him break, 

In ruin and confusion hurled, 
He, unconcerned, would hear the mighty crack, 

And stand secure amidst a falling world." 
16* 



186 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1770 

The evening was concluded by singing a song composed by 
Mr. Alexander Scammel.* 

1771, December 20. At an occasionul meeting, Alexander 
Scammel, M. A., was, by his desire, unanimously voted in as a 
member of the club. 

December 2Sd. The 22d falling on Sunday, the club voted 
to celebrate Forefathers' Day on Monday, the 23d. In the 
morning a cannon was discharged, and the flag hoisted on the 
hall. At noon, the club being joined by a number of the most 
respectable gentlemen in town, met in a spacious room at the 
house of Mr. Wethrell, innholder, where they partook of a 
plain and elegant entertainment, and spent the afternoon in 
cheerful and social conversation, upon a variety of subjects 
peculiarly adapted to the time. At sunset, upon a signal given 
by the discharge of cannon and striking the flag, the members 
of the club, with the gentlemen of the town, repaired to the 
hall, where the aforesaid subjects were resumed, and several 
important matters, relative to the conduct of our ancestors, 
were discussed with freedom and candor, and a number of 
pleasing anecdotes of our progenitors were recollected and 
communicated by some of the aged and venerable gentlemen 
who favored us with their company. 

An uncommon harmony and pleasantry prevailed throughout 
the day and evening, every person present exerting himself to 
increase the general joy. The Old Colony song, with a num- 
ber of others, was sung, after which the company withdrew. 

A letter from the Rev. Mr. Robbins was communicated by 
the President, and is as follows: 

Plymouth^ December 23, 1771. 
Gextlemex: I am told it was expected by some, that as the 
anniversary of our forefathers' arrival in this place fell on the 
Sabbath past, I would have taken some public notice of it in 
the pulpit. I must acknowledge I think there would have been 
a great propriety in it, and I am very sorry it was entirely out 
of my mind that that was the day, till I was reminded of it to- 
day; otherwise I should certainly have taken notice of it, and 

* ' Mr. A. Scammel was then the teacher of the Plymouth town 
school. He was afterwards a distinguished officer in the American 
army. At the siege of York Town, September 30th, 1781, he re- 
ceived a fatal wound, and was captured by the British. He died in 
the city of Williamsburg, Viroinia, v/here is a monumental tablet, 
Which conquering armies, from their toils return'd, 
Ilear'd to his glory, while his fate they mourn'd.' 

Humphreys 



1770] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 187 

attempted to say something suitable to the occasion; however, 
it is past now; but I would on this occasion, if it would not be 
esteemed assuming in me, humbly propose to the gentlemen of 
your society, whether it would not be agreeable, and serve for 
the entertainment and instruction of the rising generation, 
more especially for the future, on these anniversaries to have a 
sermon in public, some part of the day, peculiarly adapted to 
the occasion, wherein should be represented the motives that 
induced them, to undertake such an enterprise, the amazing 
dangers and difficulties they conflicted with and overcame, the 
piety and ardor with which they persevered through number- 
less discouragements and opposition — the time, manner, and 
other circumstances of their first arrival, — with all the train of 
surprising events that ensued, — the appearances of the di- 
vine providence and goodness for them, the noble and God-like 
virtue with which they were inspired, so worthy the imitation 
of their posterity, &.c., &.C., — with many other things, that would 
naturally fall in upon a discourse of this kind. I mention this, 
gentlemen, the more freely, because I remember it was spoken 
of in conversation by some of the gentlemen of your company 
the evening of the last anniversary. I do btit propose the 
thing, gentlemen, for your consideration this evening, and if it 
should prove agreeable, I would beg leave to suggest one thing 
further, viz., that the minister to preach the sermon be chosen 
by your society somewhere ivithiJi the Old Colony, and I doubt 
not any gentleman whom you should choose for that purpose 
would very willingly consent, in order to encourage so good a 
design. 

' And now, gentlemen, I rest assured that your candor and 
generosity is such, that you will not construe what I have of- 
fered in an unfavorable light, either as being dictatorial, or 
seeming to desire myself the office of speaker on such occa- 
sion, which I can sincerely say is far from being true. I pro- 
pose it for the instruction and entertainment of ourselves and 
posterity. The plan, if it should be agreeable, would afCoid 
us opportunity to hear these matters discoursed on by a great 
variety of ministers, who would doubtless take pains to furnish 
themselves with entertaining and useful materials for the occa- 
sion. And for this end, if they were appointed at each anni- 
versary for the next year, they would have so much the better 
opportunity to prepare. Submitting the matter to your consid- 
eration, I am, gentlemen, with much regard, 

' Your friend and very humble servant. 

Chandler Robbins.' 

Voted, that Messrs. Pelham Winslow, Edward Winslow, Jr., 



188 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1770 

and Alexander Scammel, should be a committee to prepare an 
answer to the above letter, which they are to lay before the club 
as soon as may be. 

1772, Jamiai-y 1th. Messrs. Pelham Winslow, Edward 
Winslow, and Alexander Scammel, the committee chosen the 
23d December, reported an answer to the Rev. Mr. Robbins's 
letter, which was approved, and accordingly forwarded by the 
club, and is as follows: 

Rev. and respected Sir: We have carefully perused the 
contents of your letter of the 23d inst., but before we proceed 
to a particular answer thereto, we think it necessary to observe, 
that the members of this society, (who weekly meet together 
for the mutual advantage of each other, to enjoy the refined 
pleasures of social and unrestrained conversation, unalloyed 
with the disputes and contentions of parties,) having taken 
into consideration, that the celebrating certain days of each 
year, upon which any remarkable event or extraordinary trans- 
action had happened, is a practice which has the sanction of 
antiquity for its justification, finding frequent instances of it 
in sacred as well as profane, in ancient as well as modern his- 
tory, not only among nations, states and churches, but even 
in particular societies and corporations, — we were not a lit- 
tle surprised, that an event so important and glorious in its 
consequences as the landing of our ancestors in this place, 
should be totally neglected by their descendants; — considering- 
further, that the assembling a number of persons of different 
ages, for the purpose of commemorating this truly remarkable 
period, would have a natural and direct tendency to introduce 
subjects for conversation relative to our illustrious progenitors, 
and the history of our country, the aged upon those days 
would with freedom communicate to the youth those circum- 
stances which had happened within their memories, and those 
also which had been casually related to them by their prede- 
cessors; by these means many pleasing and curious anecdotes 
of our pious forefathers, which have escaped the pens of his- 
torians, would be snatched from oblivion and descend to pos- 
terity; and while we„ with pleasure and gratitude, were recol- 
lecting and admiring their virtues, their patience, their piety, 
their heroism, and their fortitude, we might be incited to follow 
their worthy examples, 

' These, sir, were the principal motives by which we were 
actuated, (whatever the malice and envy of some might sug- 
gest to the contrary,) when we proposed to celebrate this anni- 
versary, and we were pleased with the expectation of being 
joined by many of the respectable members of the Old Colony; 



1770] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 189 

and (from a consciousness of the rectitude of our intentions, 
and the benefit that might result to us and others from this in- 
stitution,) we flattered ourselves that even the reverend gen- 
tlemen of the clergy would give a sanction to it, by honoring 
us with their presence. 

' Our expectations have been, in part, answered, and we es- 
teem ourselves under the greatest obligations to you, sir, for 
proposing a mode of celebration for the future, so exactly cor- 
respondent with our most sanguine wishes and expectations, as 
that of having a sermon preached on this solemn as well as 
imjyortant occasion. We concur with you ' that it would be 
agreeable, and serve for the entertainment and instruction of 
the rising generation; ' and we are of opinion that the motives 
and inducements of our religious forefathers for undertaking so 
dangerous an enterprise as the settlement of this colony, the 
amazing difficulties they encountered and overcame, the true 
vital piety and ardor with which they persevered, their sincere 
desire to advance the christian religion, and their other noble 
and Godlike virtues, are subjects that ought to be minutely dis- 
cussed, and solemnized by the sacred oratory of the pulpit. 

* We have endeavored to deserve the compliment which 
you have been pleased to pay us, construing your letter 'with 
generosity and candor.' We neither esteem it ^ dictatorial,' 
nor as ' desiring yourself the office of speaker on the occa- 
sion.' 

' We have impatiently waited for a proposal of this kind to 
be made to some gentlemen of the clergy by persons whose 
ages and situations in life have given them greater influence 
than ourselves, but it has been hitherto omitted; we would 
modestly request (as you are the pastor of the first church that 
was gathered in the Old Colony, have the greatest advantages 
and opportunities for collecting all the historical fads and other 
materials that may be necessary for this work, and in every 
other respect are peculiarly qualified therefor,) that you would, 
upon the ensuing anniversary, prepare and deliver a discourse 
* suitable to the time; * and, in complying with this our re- 
quest, we trust that you will not only render a singular service 
to the public, but will oblige many of the respectable inhabit- 
ants of the Old Colony, and, in particular, the members of this 
society. We are, with the most unfeigned respect and grati- 
tude, 

' Your sincere friends and obedient servants, 

'The Old Colony Club. 

*From Old Cblony Hall, December 31, 1771. 
^ Rev. Chandler Robbins.' 



190 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1770 

December loth. At a meeting, voted that William Watson, 
Esq., Capt. Elkanah Watson, Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop, Capt. 
Gideon White, Dr. Lazarus Le Baron, Thomas Foster, Esq., 
George Watson, Esq., Edward Winslow, Esq., Thomas May- 
hew, Esq., James Hovey, Esq., Deacon John Torrey, and 
James Warren, Esq., be invited to Old Colony Club on Wednes- 
day evening next, then and there to join the Club in proposing 
a method of celebration of the next 22d of December. 

December 16, at a meeting, present, Pelham Winslow, John 
Thomas, Edward Winslow, Cornelius White, Thomas Lo- 
throp, Elkanah Cushman, John Watson, Thomas Mayhew. 

Thomas Foster, James Hovey, George Watson, James 
Warren, Thomas Mayhew, William Watson, Esq., Capt. 
Gideon White, Dr. William Thomas, Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop, 
by invitation. 

Voted by the Club and the above gentlemen, 

1. That a committee be chosen from among the members of 
this club, to wait on the Rev. Mr. Robbins, and inform him 
that it is expected by the gentlemen of this place, that he will 
gratify the public by complying with the request of this Club, 
made in their letter to him dated the 31st of December, A. D. 
1771, to 'preach a sermon on the ensuing anniversary,' and 
that (if it be agreeable to him) to begin the services at half 
after ten o'clock in the forenoon. 

2. That the company, together with such other gentlemen as 
may join us from the neighboring towns, dine together at the 
house of Mr. Howland, in Plymouth. 

3. That the gentlemen of the clergy belonging to this town, 
together with those who may be here from the other towns, be 
invited to dine with the company at Mr. Rowland's. 

After the company withdrew, 

Voted by the Club, that Pelham Winslow, John Thomas, 
and John Watson, be a committee to wait on the Rev. Mr. 
Robbins for the purpose mentioned in the foregoing vote of the 
company; and that they also request of Mr. Robbins, that he 
would, on the Sabbath preceding the anniversary, notify his 
church and congregation of our intention to celebrate the said 
day. And that they also wait on the Rev. Mr. Bacon, and 
make the same request to him. And they are to make report 
ot their doings to this Club on Monday, at 1 1 o'clock, A. M., to 
which time this Club is adjourned. 

December 22. Upon this 22d day of December, (to show 
our gratitude to the Creator and Preserver of our ancestors 
and ourselves, and as a mark of respect most justly due to the 
memories of those heroic christians, who on the 22d of De- 



1770] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 191 

cember, 1620, landed on this spot,) the members of this Club 
joined a numerous and Kespectable assembly in the meeting 
house of the first parish in Plymouth, and, after a hymn of 
praise and prayer to God, the Rev. Mr. Chandler Robbins de- 
livered an historical and pathetic discourse, from these words; 
* For he established a testimony in Jacob, and appointed a law 
in Israel, which he commanded our fathers, that they should 
make them known to their children, that the generations to 
come might know them, even the children ivhich should be 
born: ivho should arise and declare them to their children, that 
they might set their hope in God, and not forget the works of 
God, and keep his commandments.' 

In which, after enumerating many of the virtues of our pre- 
decessors, he recounted their toils, their hazards, and their 
troubles in their various attempts to shun the horrors of a des- 
potic power, and the curses of an ecclesiastical tyranny, and 
to obtain a land wherein they might enjoy their religion in its 
purity, and peace of conscience. This sermon closed with an 
address to the audience, whi^h did honor to humanity and him- 
self; and, by the profound silence and solemn attention which 
prevailed throughout this vast collection of people, of all ages, 
he must have had the pleasing satisfaction of concluding that 
he had not spent his strength for nought. The New England 
hymn, composed by Dr. Byles, sung with uncommon melody, 
finished the exercise. 

That cheerfulness (the never-failing companion of grateful 
christians) might reign among us, the members of the club, 
together with the reverend gentlemen of the clergy, and others, 
the most respectable of the congregation repaired to the house 
of Mr. Howland, where a table was spread and abundantly 
furnished with the various productions of this now fruitful 
country, at which the honorable general John Winslow pre- 
sided. After*partaking of these bounties, and spending a few 
hours in the most social conversation upon the history of our 
country, the adventures of our ancestors, &c. subjects at this 
time peculiarly pleasing, the company proceeded to Old Colony 
Hall, where the same sociability and harmony prevailed through- 
out the evening. 

1773, Januarij 6th. Voted by the club and the gentlemen 
present, that the Rev. Charles Turner, of Duxbury, be invited 
to preach the next anniversary sermon, and that Pelham Wins- 
low, Thomas Lothrop, John Thomas, and Edward Winslow, 
be a committee to draft a letter to that gentleman ; and that the 
same committee write a letter of thanks to the Rev. Mr. Rob- 
bins, for his sermon on the 22d ult., and request a copy thereof^ 



192 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1770 

the committee to make report the next club night. Rev. Mr. 
Turner accepted the invitation to preach the anniversary ser- 
mon, and performed that service December 22d, 1773. 

The committee reported the following letter to the Rev. Mr. 
Robbins. 

' Old Colony Hall, January 13th, 1773. 

Rev. Sir : The members of this society, deeply impressed 
with a sense of gratitude for your obHging compUance with 
their request to preach a sermon in commemoration of the set- 
tlement of our ancestors in this place, beg leave to return our 
sincere thanks for your entertaining and instructive discourse 
of the 22d December last, and in order to perpetuate the many 
pertinent observations therein contained, would modestly re- 
quest a copy, that the rising generation may have a better op- 
portunity of being benefitted and instructed, which you justly 
observed, was the more immediate design of the discourse. 
We are with all due respect, your most humble servants, 

Old Colony Clue.' 

Jinsiver. 
Respected Gentlemen: Having just received your oblig- 
ing favor, being from home when it was sent, I take this op- 
portunity to acknowledge my obligations for your acceptance 
of my endeavors to gratify the members of your society and 
others, in the sermon you refer to. The subject is so well 
known and handled in the printed memoirs of those times, that 
a publication of the discourse seems needless, and I fear will 
never answer your expectations and the end you propose. I 
shall, however, not be averse to gratify your request for a copy, 
if it shall be judged any way likely to afford any entertainment 
to the rising generation, and ask the favor of a little further 
time to think of the affair. I am with much esteem, gen- 
tlemen, Your humble servant, 

*Cf Robbins.' 

February ^4th. At a meeting, the following letter, (together 
with the anniversary sermon in manuscript,) was this night re- 
ceived from the Rev. Mr. Robbins. 

Plymouth, Feb. 28, 1773. 

'Friends and Gentlemen: Having considered your re- 
quest to me for a copy of my sermon, preached at the last an- 
niversary, &c.' partly from the desire of others, who can never 
expect that benefit from the larger histories of those times 
which you, gentlemen, and many others may enjoy ; but, 
chiefly, in gratification of the request of your society, to whom 
I acknowledge myself under obligations for their candor and 



1770] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 19$ 

respect, I now present you a copy of said sermon, with liberty 
to make what use of it you shall think proper; and am, gentle- 
men, with much esteem, your obliged friend and humble ser- 
vant, C. ROBBINS.' 
' The Old Colony Club.' 

JS*ovember ^4th. At a meeting of the club, James Warren, 
Esq., Mr. John Torrey, and Mr. Thomas Jackson, came in and 
said, 'that they were a sub-committee (appointed by the com- 
mittee of correspondence and communication of this town) for 
the purpose of informing this club of the determination of the 
said committee of correspondence relative to the celebration of 
the next 22d of December, and to request that the club would 
join with and conform thereto. ' Voted, that the consideration 
of this matter be adjourned to the next club night, and that then 
a written answer be prepared, and on the Monday night follow- 
ing, be presented to the committee. 

December 1st. At a meeting of the club, the committee 
chosen at the last club night to prepare an answer to the com- 
mittee of correspondence, reported the following, which, being 
read and considered, was accepted, and ordered to be re- 
corded. 

' To the committee of communication and correspondence of 
the town of Plymouth. 

' Gentlemen: The Old Colony Club received your message 
by your sub-committee, with your determination in what way 
and manner the ensuing anniversary of the 22d of December 
shall be solemnized and celebrated, with a request that we 
would join with and conform thereto. We have fully, liberally, 
and candidly considered thereof, and in answer would observe, 
that this club are not, nor ever have been, anxious or desirous 
of taking the lead and direction, or marshalling and regulating 
the public solemnities and particular rights and ceremonies of 
that important day, having always invited the gentlemen of the 
town to gi consultation previous to any determination, and hav- 
ing ever acted by and with the, advice and consent of the gen- 
tlemen present, and not exparte^ as may appear from the re- 
cords of our proceedings on those occasions. Justice to our- 
selves, however, emboldens -us to say, that, as we were the 
first institutors of this festival, and as no event has taken place 
to lessen our dignity or consequence as a club since the last 
anniversary, we have a right to be consulted on the manner of 
celebrating it, whether the same be taken into consideration 
by the gentlemen of the town, county, or colony. As gen- 
tlemen of the town, we will not dispute your right of acting ia 
17 



194 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1770 

this matter, in conjunction with others, but as a committee of 
correspondence, &c. (in which name and capacity you have 
accosted us) we absolutely deny your jurisdiction and authority. 
By the records of this town it appears, that you were chosen 
' to communicate and correspond with the town of Boston and 
other towns ;' and in this business we would not interfere or 
molest you. But we apprehend that your constituents had no 
more idea or suspicion of your interfering in these matters, (as 
a committee of correspondence,) than they had of your regu- 
lating or altering their creed, or their catechism. And it ap- 
pears to us that you have just the same right to meddle with 
the one as the other, or indeed, to determine any civil, religious, 
or military matter, that has or may arise within our town. — 
This partial and extra-judicial way of proceeding, we apppre- 
hend, will have a tendency to promote parties and divisions, 
(which have already too long harrassed and convulsed this once 
peaceful town,) rather than that harmony and concord, so ne- 
cessary to the welfare of all societies. 

' But should we admit your right of acting as a committee of 
correspondence, we cannot suppose so great an absurdity as 
the counteracting your own vote and determination, without 
some sufficient reason. You must remember, that these mat- 
ters were fairly discussed and settled by the gentlemen of the 
town in general, and the members of this club, and that by and 
with the consent, approbation, and vote of a majority of the now 
members of your committee. For at a meeting of a large and 
respectable number of the gentlemen of this town with the 
club at Old Colony Hall, on the sixth day of January last, for 
the very purposes of adjusting and settling the matters relative 
to the celebration of the ensuing anniversary, among whom 
were a major part of your committee, it was unanimously vot- 
ed, ' that the club should write to the Rev. Mr. Turner, and 
request him to preach a sermon on the next 22d of December, 
&c.' — In consequence of which, the club wrote to Mr. Turner, 
and afterwards received his answer in the affirmative, (directed 
to the club,) as may also appear by our record. At the same 
meeting it was also moved and agreed to, that as the club 
were the original institutors, it was most proper for them to 
have the direction of the minute or lesser matters relative to 
the celebration. We are now, and always have been, ready 
and willing to concur with any measure which may conduce to 
the harmonious and agreeable celebration of this anniversary, 
in commemoration of the landing of our forefathers in this 
place. We think it ought to be, and we hope it ever will be,, 
kept and observed by the gentlemen of this town^ county, and 



1770] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 195 

colony socially, and like a band of brethren, — nor would we 
contend for trifles or punctilios. But your plan and proceed- 
ings, without advising with or consulting the other gentlemen 
of the town, or the club, appear to us so great an invasion of 
the liberty and privileges of the gentlemen of the town of Ply- 
mouth, and the Old Colony Club, that we cannot approve or 
comply with the same. 
'Dec. 1st, 1773.' 

December' 8. At a meeting of Old Colony Club, 

Voted, that the club, together with such gentlemen as please 
to join them from this or the neighboring towns, will dine to- 
gether at Mr. Witherell's, upon the ensuing anniversary, and 
that the clerk of this club send a copy of this vote to the Rev. 
Mr. Turner and inform him that the club expect the pleasure 
of his company on that day. 

Voted, that the club and their friends will spend the anniver- 
sary evening at the hall. 

Voted, that the Rev. Mr. Bacon, and the Rev. Mr. Robbins, 
and all the social club, be invited to dine and spend the even- 
ing, as also such other gentlemen of the clergy as may be in 
town. 

The reader cannot fail of being impressed with a sense of 
gratitude for the valuable reminiscences transmitted by the Old 
Colony Club; and it is a matter of regret that its existence 
had not been protracted to a later period : but unfortunately, 
some of the members were attached to the royal interest, and 
it was deemed expedient that the club should be dissolved. 

This society possessed a library and museum. Of the re- 
spectable members not one now survives. 

Among their invited guests at various times we notice the 
following distinguished names, of high standing in the political 
and fashionable world. 

John Adams, Robert T. Paine, Daniel Leonard, Col. Thom- 
as Oliver, Richard Leachmur, Nathan Cushing, Peleg 
Wadsworth, William Sever,* Benjamin Kent, Gen. John 
Winslow, and Dr. Charles Stockbridge. 

* Hon. William Sever resided in Kingston, and died in 1809, aged 
79 years. This gentlemen ought to be held in remembrance, as a 
man of high standing in society. He was, in principle, a staunch 
whig, and our country was benefited by his influence and example 
during the revolution. The late President Adams once spoke of 
hira as the "salt of the earth." The Rev. Dr. Dwicrht, in his Jour- 
nal of travels, in that part which relates to the Old Colony, observes 
that "Mr. Sever was the most respectable and worthy character he 



1^ HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1770 

1770. — JVbiv-intercourse tvith Great Britain. — A large propor- 
tion of the respectable merchants of Boston came into a non- 
intercourse agreement against Great Britain, and sent circular 
letters to this and other towns for their co-operation. The 
town voted, March 26th, that they will contribute all in their 
power to support them in their laudable purpose of repelling 
tyranny and oppression ; and voted the thanks of the town to 
the town of Boston for the firm and spirited opposition which 
they have made to the tyrannical attempts of the British gov- 
ernment to enslave our country, and that we will at all times 
assist them in such vigorous and constitutional measures as 
they shall adopt for the preservation of our common rights. 
Voted also, that we will encourage and support the non-inter- 
course agreement, and will encourage frugality, industry, and 
the manufactures of our country, discouraging the use of for- 
eign superfluities, particularly the article of foreign tea. A 
committee of inspection was chosen to inquire, from time to 
time, if any person should directly or indirectly contravene the 
above measures. Should any one be detected in importing 
goods, or of purchasing of those who import, their names are 
to be published in the newspapers, and to be reported to the 
next town-meeting. It was at this period that Governor Hutch- 
inson, and his adherents, represented the party in opposition to 
British measures as only an uneasy factious few in Boston, 
while the body of the people were quite contented. 

It is stated in the histories of the war, by both Gordon, and 
Mrs. Warren, and copied into Marshall's life of Washington, 
that James Warren, Esq., and Samuel Adams, Esq., while at 
Plymouth, originated the famous committee of correspond- 
ence in the several towns of the colony, but Samuel A. Wells, 
Esq. of Boston, assures me that, from the most thorough in- 
vestigation, he has ascertained that General Warren had no 
share whatever in originating those committees, but that Sam- 
uel Adams was the original proposer, and is alone entitled to 
the honor. I have also been assured by Z. Bartlett, Esq. that 
Mr. Samuel Cole, late of this town, informed him that he first 
suggested the idea of committee of correspondence to Mr. 

had known.'^ He was, for many years, Judge of Probate for the 
county of Plymouth. But I venerated him the more on account of 
Vhe remarkable similarity in his person and appearance to General 
Washington. The resemblance in erect form -and in dignity of 
manners, was so peculiarly striking, that the comparison was al- 
most perfect, and my interviews with, him brought to my mind the 
most delightful recollectioELs. 



1772, 73] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 197 

Stephen Sampson, and that they conversed with General War- 
ren on the subject, who communicated with Mr. Samuel Ad- 
ams, and the scheme, being approved by them, was immediately 
adopted. 

1772. — It appears by the town records, that, at a legal meet- 
ing of the town, November 24th, 1772, the petition of Mr. 
Thomas Jackson and one hundred other inhabitants was read, 
setting forth the alarming situation of our country in conse- 
quence of the tyrannical measures of the British Parliament, 
and praying that the town would take the subject into consid- 
eration. It was thereon voted to choose a standing committee 
of correspondence and communication, who shall freely, from 
time to time, communicate and correspond with the town of 
Boston, and any other town on the subject of our present diffi- 
culties, and of the measures proper to be taken on the occa- 
sion, they to apply to the gelectmen to call a town-rneeting, on 
any emergency, to consider of any intelligence of importance 
they may receive, and to act and do what further they may 
then think proper. The following persons were then chosen to 
compose the committee. 

James Warren, Elkanah Watson, • 

John Torrey, William Watson, 

Stephen Sampson, Thomas Lothrop, 

Samuel Cole. Nathaniel Torrey, 

Ephraim Cobb, Thomas Mayhew^ 

Dr. William Thomas, Isaac Lothrop. 
Thomas Jackson, 
The petition above mentioned enumerated, among their 
grievances, the violation of our rights and the repeated attacks 
made on our constitution, in taxation without our consent, ex- 
tension of admiralty jurisdiction, with the quartering of sol- 
diers in the town of Boston, the lawless insolence and murders 
they have committed, * with the contemptuous and unconstitu- 
tional treatment of our General Court from time to time, mak- 
ing the Governor independent of the people, and many other 
illegal acts, from the memorable era of the stamp act. 

1773. — December. — Parliament having passed an act ena- 
bling the East India Company in London to export their teas to 
America, subject to an unconstitutional tax or tribute, the town 
resolved, that the dangerous nature and tendency of importing 
teas as proposed, subject to a tax upon us without our consent, 
is alarming, and ought to be opposed. And further, that the 
persons to whom the said India company have consigned their 

* Alludrnir to the massacre of 5th of March, 1770. 

17 * 



193 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1774 

tea which they propose to send to Boston, have, by their endeav- 
oring to accept of and execute their commission, forfeited that 
protection every good citizen is entitled to, and exposed them- 
selves and their abettors to the indignation and resentment of 
all good citizens. That it is an affront to the common sense of 
mankind, and to the majesty of the people, who are, under God, 
the source from which is derived all power and majesty in every 
community, to assert, that any meeting of the people to concert 
measures for their common security and happiness on every ex- 
traordinary and alarming occasion, is either unlawful or irregu- 
lar, since no legislature could be supposed to establish rules of 
conduct in such cases as no man could ever suppose would take 
place in a free and good government. That the late meetings 
of a very large and respectable body of the inhabitants of 
Boston and other towns, and their determination at said meetings 
relative to the importation and reshinping of any teas that have 
or may be sent here subject to a duty on importation, were both 
necessary and laudable, and highly deserving the gratitude 
of all who are interested in, or wish the prosperity of, America. 

It was voted that we are in duty and gratitude bound not on- 
ly to acknowledge our obligations to the body who composed 
that meeting, for that noble, generous, and spirited conduct in 
the common cause, but also to aid and support them in carrying 
their votes and resolves into execution ; and we will, at the hazard 
of our lives and fortunes, exert our whole force to defend them 
against the violence and wickedness of all our common enemies. 

It appeared to be the firm determination of the inhabitants of 
this town, that so long as a compulsory tone was assumed by the 
parent country, so long the tone of defiance ought to be main- 
tained by the patriotic people of the Provinces. ' For oppression 
will make a wise man mad.' 

On Monday, 13th December, at the adjournment of the town 
meeting, Edward Winslow and others presented a protest 
against the resolves and proceedings of the last meeting, but 
the town woted not to have it read. 

1774. — The inhabitants of the town, animated by the glorious 
spirit of liberty which pervaded the Province, and mindful of 
the precious relic of our forefathers, resolved to consecrate the 
rock on which they landed to the shrine of liberty. Col. The- 
ophilus Cotton, and a large number of the inhabitants assembled, 
with about 20 yoke of oxen, for the purpose of its removal. 
Tlie rock was elevated from its bed by means of large screws; 
and in attempting to mount it on the carriage, it split asunder, 
without any violence. As no one had observed a flaw, the cir- 
cumstance occasioned some surprise. It is not strange that 



1774] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH, 199 

some of the patriots of the day should be disposed to indulge a 
little in superstition, when in favor of their good cause. The 
separation of the rock was construed to be ominous of a divi- 
sion of the British Empire. The question was now to be decided 
whether both parts should be removed, and being decided in the 
negative, the bottom part was dropped again into its original 
bed, where it still remains, a few inches above the surface of 
the earth, at the head of the wharf The upper portion, weigh- 
ing many tons, was conveyed to the liberty pole square, front of 
the meeting-house, where, we believe, waved over it a flag with 
the far-famed motto, ^ Liberty or death.' This part of the rock 
was, on the 4th of July, 1834, removed to Pilgrim Hall, and 
placed in front of that edifice under the charge of the Pilgrim 
Society. A procession was formed on this occasion, and passed 
over Cole's hill, where lie the ashes of those who died the first 
winter. 

A miniature representation of the Mayflower followed in the 
procession, placed in a car decorated with flowers, and drawn 
by six boys. The procession was preceded by the children of 
both sexes of the several schools in town. On depositing the 
rock in front of the hall, a volley of small arms was fired over 
it by the Standish Guards, after which, an appropriate address 
was delivered by Dr. Charles Cotton, and the services were 
closed by a prayer by Rev. Dr. Kendall. 

It affords the highest satisfaction to announce that the long 
desired protection of the Forefathers' rock is at length com- 
pleted ; and it may be pronounced a noble structure, serving the 
double purpose of security to the rock, and a monument to the 
Pilgrims. The fabric was erected in June of the present year, 
(1835,) and consists of a perfect ellipse forty-one feet in pe- 
rimeter, formedof wrought iron bars, fivefeet high, resting on a 
base of hammered granite. The heads of the perpendicular 
bars are harpoons and boat-hooks alternately. The whole is 
embellished with emblematic figures of cast iron. The base of 
the railing is studded with emblems of marine shells^ placed al- 
ternately reversed, having a striking effect. The upper part of 
the railing is encircled with a wreath of iron castings in imita- 
tion of heraldry curtains, fringed with festoons; of these are 
forty-one; bearing the names in bass-relief of the forty-one puri- 
tan fathers who signed the memorable compact while in the cabin 
of the Mayflower at Cape Cod, in 1620. This valuable and in- 
teresting acquisition, reflects honor on all who have taken an 
interest in the undertaking. In the original design by George 
W. Brimmer, Esq., ingenuity and correct taste are displayed; 
and in all its parts, the work is executed with mjuch judgment 



200 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1774 

and skill. The castings are executed in the most improved 
style of the art. This appropriate memorial will last for ages, 
and the names and story of the great founders of our nation will 
be made familiar to the latest generation. 

The Monument around forefather's rock. — This monu 
ment cost four hundred dollars. The fund was obtained by 
subscription; Lieut. Gov. Armstrong heading the paper, and 
Samuel T. Tisdale, Esq. of New York, contributing one hun- 
dred dollars. The author of this work had the honor and satis- 
faction of being the active agent in its execution. 

At a town meeting, March 24th, As the committee of corres- 
pondence had not been altogether successful in preventing the 
sale of tea, it was resolved that whoever continues to sell, or 
shall for the future expose to sale, in this town, any India tea, 
is, and ought to be considered as an enemy to the rights of 
America and the constitution of the country. And we will have 
no intercourse or dealings with such persons, till there be a 
change in the circumstances of the country, which will justify 
such conduct, and that we will consider as inimical to this coun- 
try, all those who shall have any dealings with them. 

August 15th, voted to return our sincere and hearty thanks 
to the town of Boston, for their patience and virtue under their 
present sufferings in the common cause of America, and also 
voted to choose a committee to collect all such sums of money, 
or articles that any persons will give in the town, for the sup- 
port of the suffering poor of said town of Boston, to enable 
them still to persevere with firmness and fortitude under their 
sufferings. Goods and provisions to a considerable amount were 
contributed in this town for the poor in Boston on this serious 
occasion. 

Then voted, that whereas a certain publication in the Massa- 
chusetts Gazette, of July 14th last, purporting to be the cordial 
congratulations of the Justices of the Court of General Ses- 
sions of the Peace and Inferior Court of Common Pleas for the 
county of Plymouth, to his excellency Thomas Gage, Esq. on 
his appointment to the high oifice of first magistrate of this 
Province, &c. contains injurious reflections on, and illiberal in- 
sinuaiions concerning the body of the clergy, and the committees 
of correspondence in the several towns in this Province, as if 
the said commissioners had assumed a title and business with- 
out the appointment of their several towns, and had been en- 
couraged and supported by the clergy in an unjustifiable influ- 
ence on the people, — We, the inhabitants of the town of Ply- 
mouth, the shire town of said county, conceive it our duty to 
bear our testimony against such publication, its aiders and abet- 
tors, and therefore vote and resolve : 



J 



1774-5] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 201 

1. That we ourselves, and we conceive by far the greater 
part of the country, have a great respect for the clergy in this 
province, and the conduct of a majority of them relative to the 
political circumstances of the country. 2. That the committee 
of correspondence of this town, and we conceive those of the 
other towns where they subsist, were regularly appointed by 
their several towns for very valuable purposes, and have 
answered the expectations of their constituents, and are there- 
fore entitled to countenance and respect from all men and bodies 
of men. 3. That the solemn league and covenants entering 
into, appear to us calculated to increase the honor and dignity 
of the sovereign, to promote the true interest of our parent 
country, and to restore the harmony of society. 

Sept. 19th. — Chose a committee of nine to watch and make 
discovery of any one importing or selling tea, and report to the 
committee of correspondence. Afterwards added ten more to 
the committee, and enjoined the strictest vigilance. Chose 
James Warren, Esq. and Isaac Lothro^p, Esq. representatives, 
and the following instructions were given: — 'Being apprehen- 
sive that the chief design of convening the general assembly at 
this unusual season of the year, is to make trial whether we 
will, in whole or in part, submit to the late acts of parliament 
respecting this Province, and it being our fixed sentiment that 
said acts are cruel, unjust and oppressive, subversive of our 
most sacred rights, we cannot in conscience advise ta the least 
submission, but on the contrary, expect and desire our said 
representatives to oppose them to the utmost, in all proper ways 
and methods strictly adhering to our charter rights and priv- 
ileges: more particularly we enjoin them by no means to co-op- 
erate or act in concert with the new set of mandamus counsel- 
lors, whose appointment is founded on the destruction of our 
charter which we hold sacred and inviolable in all its parts; and 
no power on earth has a right to disannul it, and God forbid 
that we should give up the inheritance of our fathers, or tamely 
submit to the efforts of despotism and the loss of freedom. — 
And gentlemen, if in consequence of such opposition from you 
and others, the general assembly should be dissolved, or other- 
wise hindered from acting, we expect a Provincial Congress 
will be immediately formed, and that you will act as members 
of it; concerting such measures with our brethren of other 
towns, as will have the most effectual tendency to shake off the 
yoke of oppression, and prevent the operation of those acts of 
which we so justly complain.' A company of minutemen was 
raised and provided for by the town, about this time. 

1775. — January. The awful crisis was evidently approach- 



202 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1775 

ing, which should decide the momentous question whether the 
colonies were to be subjected to abject slavery, or their un- 
alienable rights and liberties secured upon a substantial foun- 
dation. 

The magnanimity with which the inhabitants of this town 
encountered the hazardous contest, was not surpassed by any in 
the province, and few towns in New England were subjected to 
greater sacrifices. The cod fishery was almost the sole support 
of the town; seventy-five schooners were employed in that ser- 
vice in 1774, and it was well known that not a sail could pass 
from the harbor after the commencement of hostilities. The 
wealthiest merchants could anticipate nothing but the most 
mortifying embarrassments, and the poor could have no better 
prospect than starvation. July 20th, was appointed by the con- 
tinental Congress, to be observed by the inhabitants of all the 
colonies as a day of public humiliation, fasting and prayer. 

James Warren, Esq. and Isaac Lothrop, Esq. were chosen 
to represent the town in provincial congress, and the following 
were their instructions: — 

'Gentlemen: You are chosen to represent us in provincial 
congress, at a time when we not only sufl?er in common with 
our sister colonies, the evil eflfects of the tyranny of the British 
government, but when we have to strugle with additional diffi- 
culties and embarrassments peculiar to our situation here. Op- 
pression has taken her principal residence, and is exerting her 
most strenuous efforts, aided and supported by mandamus coun- 
sellors, commissioners of the customs with all their tools and 
dependents, as perhaps are not to be paralelled in any other 
country under heaven, and these backed by a large naval and 
land force from Great Britain, for the purpose of effectually 
subduing this province, and reducing us to a state of vassalage 
and abject slavery, — while we, embarrassed with difficulties 
arising from a want of the exercise of the power of government, 
and by a suspension of executive justice, are unable to make 
any vigorous opposition^ We are sensible of the many diffi- 
culties the congress have to encounter, and the important busi- 
ness they have to transact, and, among the rest, that very im- 
portant one of assuming the exercise and administration of civil 
government; this we presume to be a part of their business, 
because important, and, as we think, absolutely necessary to be 
done, and therefore, instruct you to use your endeavors to effect 
it. We admire the prudence, the patience, and, in short, the 
remarkable virtue of the people of this province, which alone 
for many months has supported that justice, peace, and good 
order, which has so generally prevailed; but we dare not haz- 



1775] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 203 

ard the remaining any longer in such a situation: feeble must 
be our efforts and precarious our happiness, while the first rests 
only on recommendations, without the sanction and penalties of 
laws to enforce them, and the last is exposed to the interested 
malice and collective strength of our enemies, encouraged by 
the weakness and temerity of some of our friends: we there- 
fore, have thought it our duty, under these many and peculiar 
difficult circumstances, to aid and assist you by our advice and 
instructions, and we do repeatedly enjoin it upon you, that, 
(unless you meet certain and undoubted intelligence that our 
grievances are or will immediately be redressed) you without 
delay unite your votes and influence for establishing a form of 
government as free, as stable, and vigorous, and in all respects 
as advantageous to the good people of this province as possible. 
That we may be able to defeat the designs of our enemies, and 
again sit down in peace and safety under our own vine and fig 
tree: leaving it nevertheless, to your prudence and discretion, 
if any unforeseen circumstance should take place, to act in 
such a way and manner as you shall think most beneficial to 
the interest of this province.' 

Then voted, to choose a committee of vigilance to watch the 
conduct of tories, &c. It was voted to erect a fort on Cole's 
Hill, and great exertions were made to procure powder for the 
use of the town. Voted, that any person who shall fire at 
birds, contrary to the vote of the town, shall have their guns 
taken from them, and their names entered on the list of offend- 
ers. The whole community was divided into two opposing po- 
litical parties, designated by the epithets of whig and tory. — 
The whigs forming an immense majority, were the ruling party. 
The operation of the laws was suspended; there was no effi- 
cient legal government, no legal tribunals in existence ; the 
selectmen of towns and committees of safety were voluntarily 
acknowledged as the paramount authority. Although every 
individual claimed unrestrained liberty, few enormities were 
committed. But the poor tories, however honest in their views, 
were subjected to peculiar hardships; free liberty was not al- 
lowed to them. The modes of disciplining the tories were va- 
rious and singular. The public authorities required a full 
recantation, and a -declaration to that effect was published with 
their signatures in the newspapers. Some of the papers were 
crowded with these tory acknowledgments. When th-e popu- 
lace assumed mob authority, the offenders were subjected to 
the greatest indignity. In some places they adopted a novel 
mode, which they called smoking the tories, which was done by 
confining them in a room with a fire and the top of the chimney 



204 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1775 

covered. Sometimes a coat of tar and feathers was applied. 
It was not uncommon to transfer the punishment to the man's 
horse, by cropping his ears and shaving his tail. This town 
was not encumbered with an over proportion of disaffected peo- 
ple. Some, indeed, there were, who for years had enjoyed the 
emoluments and benefits of the royal government, and were 
not yet convinced that the fountain had become corrupt, and 
that meandering streams, impregnated with the foulest ingredi- 
ents, were undermining the blessed heritage of their fathers. — 
They were not prepared to absolve their consciences from the 
duties enjoined by the holy axiom, ' Fear God, and honor the 
king.' Another portion of this class of people, stood aloof from 
the duties and proceedings which the great crisis required, not 
so much from unworthy or sinister motives, as from a timid and 
pusillanimous spirit, viewing the project of a warfpire with so 
potent an antagonist as an herculean labor, far exceeding the 
abilities of those champions who had undertaken the tremen- 
dous experiment. They conceived that a single campaign 
would annihilate our army and resources, and all who appeared 
under the colonial standard would fall a sacrifice, as traitors 
and rebels. About ten or twelve inhabitants of this town were 
accused of being enemies to their country, and were taken by 
warrants and arraigned before the town for examination, but, 
on rendering satisfactory assurance of peaceable behavior, 
were liberated. 

A few of the obnoxious royalists abandoned their native town, 
but those who remained became peaceable citizens, and submit- 
ted to the general laws and proceedings. There were, how- 
ever, a few instances of the turbulent and incorrigible being 
brought to the the liberty pole, and compelleti to subscribe to a 
recantation of sentiment. The town authority was not known 
to stain its reputation by any unjustifiable severities, or riotous 
proceedings. In one instance, however, an individual received 
some severe discipline from indiscreet persons. A man by the 
name of Dunbar, brought to the market a beef ox, which it 
was discovered had been slaughtered by a tory in town, who 
being a notorious offentier against the ruling party, a number 
of persons assembled, enclosed Dunbar in the carcass, and tied 
the tripe round his neck, and he was, in that condition carted 
out of town. Subsequently to this catastrophe, Dunbar had 
the imprudence to appear again, on horseback. He was or- 
dered to quit the town without delay, but with a turbulent and 
obstinate air, he refused to obey. He was then tied on his 
horse, and escorted to some distance, during which he was so 
extremely outrageous as to suffer considerable injury, and at 



1775] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 205 

length a cart was procured, in which he was conveyed bejond 
the Hmits of the town. 

In one instance, the tories in Barnstable availed themselves 
of liberty-pole discipline. Mr. C. and sons had rendered them- 
selves odious to the people by their active zeal in the royal 
cause, and a vindictive temper towards the whig party; a widow 
woman frequently indulged herself in applying to them the 
epithet tory, and even intimated a liberty-pole exhibition. This 
indiscretion was not to be passed with impunity; a number of 
men in disguise entered her chamber in the night, took her from 
her bed, and after the application of tar and feathers, she was, 
by a rope round her body, hoisted almost to the top of the pole 
which Itad been erected by the whigs. Her dreadful shrieks 
soon collected a throng of people, but the poor woman could 
obtain no other redress than that bestowed by her friends, who 
kindly shaved her head, and cleansed it of tar and feathers. 

An innocent trick was devised by some persons in this town, 
which occasioned at that time a general surprise and agitation. 
An egg was produced with the following words imprinted on the 
shell by the artifice of some tories. ' O America, America^ 
Howe shall be thy conqueror.'' The egg being taken from the 
hen roost of Mr. H. and exhibited to a concourse of people as- 
sembled for public worship excited the greatest agitation, and 
the meeting was for some time suspended. The tories affected 
to believe that the phenomenon was supernatural, and a revela- 
tion from heaven, favoring their cause and predictions; and 
some whigs were ready to fall into the delusion, when one less 
credulous, observed that it was absurd to suppose that the Al- ^ 
mighty would reveal his decrees to man through the medium of 
an old hen. Thus ended the farce; but the story of the egg 
was the subject of newspaper speculation in various parts of 
the country, and the alarm which it occasioned in the minds of , 
some people here was truly astonishing. / 

In the year 1775, General Gage ordered a company of king's 
troops, called the ' (Queen's guards,' commanded by captain 
Balfour, to be stationed at Marshfield, for the protection of some 
royalists. Captain Balfour, and his officers soon made them- 
selves acquainted with the friends of the royal cause in this 
town. Their visits here were not pleasing to the tories, as the 
whig party was known to be in a state of such ferment, that a 
small spark might kindle a blaze, and create a fatal collision. 
They were, however, invited to dine with Edward Winslow, 
Esq., in company with a number of respectable gentlemen of 
their party in t6wn. Captain Balfour desired to have the opin- 
ion of the company present, on the expediency of marching 



206 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1775 

his company of guards into, Plymouth. In discussing the sub- 
ject, one of the gentlemen, Mr. John Watson, was observed to 
be silent. Captain Balfour took him aside, and said, ' Mr. 
Watson, I observed that you gave no opinion respecting my 
proposal, I should be glad to have your opinion and advice on 
the subject.' Mr. Watson replied, 'It is my opinion that it 
will not be prudent to bring your company here, for the people 
are in a state of great excitement and alarm.' '^ Will they fight?' 
says Balfour. ' Yes,' replied Watson, ' like devils.' On further 
consideration, the plan was wisely abandoned, from an appre- 
hension of the consequences. Had the company marched into 
town, they would have found a large majority of its inhabitants 
proud of the seat and character of their ancestors, and deter- 
mined to transmit them to posterity, that they may inhale with 
their earliest breath a love of liberty and the people's rights. 
Under such circumstances, it is highly probable that a collision 
Avould have taken place, and the first battle been fought at Ply- 
mouth instead of Lexington. While stationed at Marshfield, 
Captain Balfour and his officers frequently visited their friends 
at Plymouth. On one of these visits, umbrage was taken by 
some of the waichful sons of liberty, one of whom asserted that 
an officer had menaced, with a drawn sword, an individual in 
the street : a numerous collection of people soon were prepared 
to avenge in a spirited manner the insult, whether real or pre- 
tended. The officer was obliged to retreat and enter an apothe- 
cary's shop occupied by Dr. Hicks, a tory, for safety. * The 
shop was soon surrounded, and the officer's sword peremptorily 
demanded. So resolute were the assailants that the sword was 
forced from the officer, and instantly cut into several pieces. 
These particulars have recently been related to the author by 
captain W. Weston, who was standing by at the time, and who 
preserved a piece of the sword, and thinks it may still be found. 
This account is essentially confirmed by R. Cotton, Esq. and 
others who were present. 

Capt. Balfour, with his company remained at Marshfield for 
several weeks unmolested, but the day after Lexington battle, 
governor Gage, apprised of their danger, took off his troops, 
by water, to Boston. 

At this period, minute companies were organized in town, and 
immediately on hearing of the bloodshed at Lexington, Col. 
Theophilus Cotton, of this town, marched to Marshfield with a 

"* The shop occupied by Dr. Hicks, was the one attacherl to the 
house of Captain Cornelius White, now occupied by Dr. N. Hay- 
ward. 



1776] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 207 

detachment of militia under his command. There were at the 
same time about sixty fishing vessels with their crews on board 
at anchor in Plymouth harbor. The fishermen voluntarily left 
their vessels, and speedily marched to Marshfield with their 
arms resolutely determined to attack the company of British 
troops. When arrived at Marshfield, their numbers had increas- 
ed to near one thousand men, collected from the different towns, 
burning with the feelings of revenge : they might have surrounded 
and captured the whole company before they could get to their 
vessels, but were restrained by Col. Cotton, who it is said had 
received no orders for the attack. A company of fifty men belong- 
ing to this town was enrolled under the command of Capt. Na- 
thaniel Morton, jr. who with other companies formed the detach- 
ment under Col. Cotton, which, after the affair at Marshfield, 
marched to Roxbury and joined the provincial army stationed 
there, where they continued through the year. They formed a 
part of the detachment ordered to throw up entrenchments on 
the heights of Dorchester, on the 4th of March, 1776, where the 
author was present in the capacity of surgeon's mate. From 
this period, through the whole revolutionary war, this town con- 
tributed its full proportion of officers and men for the continen- 
tal service, a considerable number of whom were victims to the 
cause of their suffering country; and it would be gratifying 
could their names be transmitted to posterity, but no research 
in the writer's power could effect the desirable object. 

Col. Theophilus Cotton vvas the son of Josiah Cotton, Esq. 
of this town, noticed in page 147. He was a zealous and ac- 
tive whig and patriot, served some time in the provincial army, 
and died February, 1782, aged sixty-six, leaving many children; 
one only, the widow of Capt. Charles Dyer, is still living in 
this town. 

The colonies were now involved in actual hostilities with one 
of the most powerful nations in Europe, whose fleets and armies 
were at our doors. Our means of defence scarcely adequate 
to a single exigency, and opposition was considered by many as 
the extreme of folly and presumption. But appealing to Al- 
mighty God for the justness of their cause, the people resolved 
to buckle on their armor, and the motto. Liberty or Death, was 
every where displayed on their banners. The colonies had 
virtually absolved themselves from all British authority and 
laws, and were, by that authority, declared to be in a state of 
actual rebellion. 

1776. — The momentous subject of independence, from Great 
Britain now called forth all the wisdom of our councils, and de- 
manded the united energies and co-operation of the whole peo-* 



208 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1776 

pie. Unanimity of sentiment, on a subject of such infinite im- 
portance, was not to be expected. Some, even of the wisest 
and best patriots, were extremely reluctant to exchange a noble, 
ancient edifice, ever held in honor, for simple materials of a 
novel structure, liable to be deracinated by uncertain contingen- 
cies. But hear the high-toned voice of our town on this great 
occasion. 

May 10. — Instructions to the town's representatives in Provin- 
cial Congress : — 

' Gentlemen : We, in the most solemn manner, charge you, 
that you use all your influence, that you exert every powpr in 
you vested, in defence of the rights, the liberties, and property 
of the American colonies in general, and of this colony in par- 
ticular, in opposition to the efforts of the proud and imperious 
court of Great Britain, which seems to be lost to all sense of 
justice, and determined to deluge all America in blood and car- 
nage, unless we, by a tame, unmanly submission, will put our- 
selves in their power, to be controlled by them as they please 
ill all cases whatever. We, your constituents, resenting such 
insolent and notoriously unjust demands of the British parlia- 
ment, and of their tyrannising king, instruct you; 1. That you 
without hesitation, be ready to declare for independence of 
Great Britain, in whom no confidence can be placed, provided 
the honorable the continental congress shall think that measure 
necessary, and v/e, for our parts, do assure you, that we will 
stand by the determination of the continental congress in the 
important, and, as we think, necessary measure, at the risk of 
our lives and fortunes. 2. We wish you to use your influence, 
that such a form of government may be adopted as may appear 
most salutary, and which may bid fairest to ensure a permanent 
harmony to the colonies, and the real happines* and prosperity 
of America, to the latest posterity. In particular, we recom- 
mend it to you to use your influence, that executive and legisla- 
tive offices in the government do not meet in the same person.' 

A British armed brig, commanded by Captain Dawson, ap- 
peared in our outer harbor, when two small privateers, one 
commanded by Captain Corban Barnes, the other by Captain 
Charles Dyer, both of this town, attempted to reconnoitre her; 
a number of shots were exchanged, but they finally separated 
without much damage on either side. 

There is in Kingston a hill of great elevation, usually called 
Monk's Hill. In the early part of war, a tall mast was erected 
on this hill, on the top of \v'1iich was placed a barrel of tar and 
other combustibles, as a signal of alarm on the approach of the 
enemy. Captain Manly having captured a uuml3er of British 



1777, 78 J msTORT of Plymouth. 209 

prizes, made his appearance with other privateers like a formida- 
ble fleet in the bay, ' It is his majesty's fleet coming to burn 
the town,' said the tories. ' Fire the beacon and call in our 
country friends,' said the whigs. All was confusion and alarm, 
military music was heard in the streets, the minute-men were 
summoned to arms, and sentinels were posted at their stations. 
A man was despatched to Monk's Hill to fire the tar-barrel, the 
light and smoke ascended to the clouds, and spread the alarm 
far and wide: soon the town was filled with armed men, who 
crowded into private houses, claiming to be fed as the defenders 
of the town, and were provided for accordingly. The agita- 
tion and bustle continued through the night, and in the morning 
the joyful tidings were proclaimed that the valiant Manly had 
entered the harbor with a number of valuable prizes!* 

1777 and 1778. — The town experienced unexampled priva- 
tions and sufferings in consequence of the Ibss of commerce 
and fishery, the whole sea coast and harbor being completely 
obstructed by the British armed vessels. The seamen of the 
town were driven almost to despair, some of them engaged as 
soldiers in the continental army, others shipped on board of 
privateers, leaving their families destitute, while the vessels 
belonging to the town were perishing at the wharves. Here 
were numerous examples of poverty without hope of relief; the 
community embroiled in party excitements, families and friends 
at variance and the glorious cause of our country in a state of 
awful suspense; still, however, the noble spirit of patriotism 
remained unbroken, and the fortitude and patience of the major- 
ity of the people were truly remarkable. 

At this distressing period, complaints were made against sev- 
eral of the most respectable inhabitants, as being inimical and 
disaffected to the common cause, as appears recorded in the 
town's book as follows. 

' To Thomas May hew, Esq., one of the justices of the peace 
of the county of Plymouth. I, the subscriber, clerk of the 
committee of correspondence, inspection and safety for the 
town of Plymouth, hereby represent to you a justice of peace 
in the county aforesaid, that there is in the opinion of said com- 
mittee sufficient reason to suspect that the following persons, 
naming them, nine in number, residing in said town of Ply- 
mouth, within the state of Massachusetts Bay, are inimical to 
the Unitedl States; and you are requested upon this representa- 

*The reader of Scott's novels will be reminded' of the consterna- 
tion produced among the good citizens of Fairport, by a similar. 
mistake of Caxton and Edie Ochiltree. — Aniiquarij, vol. i'u 
18* 



210 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1778 

tion to proceed immediately against the above named persons, 
agreeably to an act of said state, passed the present session of 
the general court, entitled an act for prescribing and establish- 
ing an oath of fidelity and allegiance. By order of the com- 
mittee of correspondence, Sec. 

Andrew Croswell^ Clerk. 

Plymouth, February lltli, 1778.' 

In consequence of the foregoing representation, Thomas 
Mayhew, Esq. issued his warrant to the sheriff of the county, 
to notify the several persons therein named to appear-on the 
12th day of February to take the oath prescribed, which he 
performed accordingly. The assemblage of people on this 
novel occasion was very numerous, and considerable excite- 
ment and agitation were manifested. The persons arrested 
were tories, but highly respectable; they were treated with 
lenity, and having complied with the requirements of the law 
were liberated, and consequently Ibund among our most peace- 
able and useful citizens. 

X1778. — December 26tJi and 21th. The inhabitants of this 
town were called to witness a catastrophe, truly appalling to 
humanity. The brig General Arnold, mounting 20 guns, hav- 
ing a crew of 105 men and boys, commanded by Captain James 
Magee of Boston, sailed from that port on Thursday, 24th of 
December, bound on a cruise. On Friday, anchored off Ply-.^ 
mouth harbor, being destitute of a pilot. In the night a heavy 
gale drove her on the White Flat. She soon filled with water 
and it become necessary to cut away the masts. Unfortunately, 
a great disturbance was occasioned by intoxication among some 
of the seamen in the steerage, which was with difficulty quelled 
by the officers. A tremendous storm of wind and snow came 
on, and a considerable nnmber of men died on Saturday after- 
noon and in the night. Three men, not of the crew, being on 
board, took the yawl, and passed eight or ten rods to the ice, 
and were taken on board a schooner that was frozen in. Had 
the boat been returned as promised, many lives would have 
been saved. 

Sunday morning, the vessel was seen in a most distressful 
situation, enveloped in ice and snow, and the whole shore was 
fVozen to a solid body of ice, the winds and waves raging with 
such dreadful violence that no possible relief could be afforded 
to the miserable sufferers. The inhabitants made every effort 
to reach the wreck in boats, but were obliged to put back, al- 
though aware that the seamen were in the arms of death, and 
M'hen the miserable victims on board saw the boats returning 
leaving them in a condition of utter hopelessness, their spirits 



1778] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 211 

were appalled, and numbers were seen to fall dead on the deck. 
On Monday, the inhabitants passed over the ice to the wreck. 
Here was presented a scene unutterably awful and distressing. 
It is scarcely possible for the human mind to conceive of a more 
apptilling spectacle. The ship was sunk ten feet in the sand, 
the waves had been for about thirty-six hours sweeping the 
main deck, the men had crowded to the quarter deck, and even 
here they were obliged to pile together dead bodies to make 
room for the living. Seventy dead bodies frozen into all imag- 
inable postures were strewed over the deck, or attached to the 
shrouds and spars; about thirty exhibited signs of life, but were 
unconscious whether in life or death. The bodies remained in 
the posture in which they died, the features dreadfully distorted; 
some were erect, some bending forward, some sitting with the 
head resting on the knees, and some with both arms extended, 
clinging to spars or some parts of the vessel. The few surviv- 
ors and the dead bodies, were brought over the ice on sleds 
and boards, and the dead were piled on the floor of the court 
house, exhibiting a scene calculated to impress even the most 
callous heart with deep humility and sorrow. It has been said 
that the Rev. Mr. Robbins fainted when called to perform the 
religious solemnities. Those bodies that were to be deposited 
in coffins were lirst put into the town brook; a considerable 
number were seen floating on the water, fastened by ropes, 
that their form might be made to conform to the coffin. But 
about sixty were thrown into a large pit as they were taken 
from the vessel. This pit is in a hollow on the southwest side 
of the burial ground, and remains without a &*tone. The greater 
part of those who were found alive, expired soon after. Capt. 
Magee survived, and performed several profitable voyages af- 
terwards. He abstained entirely from drinking ardent spirits, 
but was of opinion that he was greatly benefitted by putting 
rum into his boots. Those who drank rum were more imme- 
diate victims, several being found dead in the very spot where 
they drank it. A man named Downs, belonging to Barnstable, 
was apparently dead, but on being seen to move his eyelids, 
was put into a vessel of cold water for several hours, by which 
he was resuscitated, but with the most exquisite pain. He lost 
both of his feet, but lived many years after. Among those 
who perished were Dr. Mann, of Attleborough, Dr. Sears, Cap- 
tain John Russell, of Barnstable, commander of the marines, 
and Lieutenant Daniel Hall. The two last were buried in one 
grave on the south side of the burial hill. Note. — It should be 
observed that when persons are exposed to intense cold there 
is always a propensity to sleep, but the moment it is indulged 
it becomes the sleep of death. 



212 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1779 

1779. — At a meeting of the town, Resorved, as the laws en- 
acted by our provident ancestors, with wonderful wisdom and 
sagacity, for the establishment and regulation of schools, have 
diffused an universal spirit of knowledge and inquiry, not tQ be 
met with in other states or kingdoms, and have been a great 
means, under Providence, of preserving this people from the 
shackles fabricated for them by a foreign power, and as the 
preservation of the freedom, health, and vigor of the state de- 
pends in a great measure, upon the strictest attention being paid 
lo this institution: Resolved, that the school committee be or- 
dered to provide (if such one be not already provided) an able 
and faithful master to keep the grammar school in this town, 
possessed of such qualifications as are required by law. 

The town was this year subjected to extreme difficulty and 
expense in raising soldiers for the army, and supporting their 
families in their absence, having been reduced to the necessity 
of selling real estate and hiring money for that purpose. They 
retained nevertheless the true and inflexible principles of patri- 
otism, still resolved to defend the noble fabric which our fathers 
reared, and that if the star of their country's glory must set, its 
setting should be marked with the avenging hand of the op- 
pressed. The inhabitants were divided into classes; each class 
was required to furnish one able-bodied man, to serve for a 
specified term in the continental army. The demand for such ser- 
vice, besides the common bounty allowed by congress, was very 
exorbitant, and on some occasions it was stipulated that the com- 
pensation should be paid in silver money, as the paper currency 
had become so depreciated that no confidence could be placed 
in its value.* At one period, a silver dollar would purchase 
one hundred in paper. A farmer in a neighboring town sold a 
cow in the spring for forty dollars, and in the next autumn 
he paid the whole sum for a goose for a thanksgiving dinner. 

The whole Plymouth Bay and harbor were almost constantly 
infested with small picaroons, called ' shaving mills.'' One of 
these approached the shore at Manomet Ponds, on a Siinday, by 
which the town was so much alarmed that a company of militia, 
with a piece of cannon, marched to that place for the protection 
of the inhabitants, and on this occasion, as well as on several 
others, the people in that parish, that they might be prepared 
for defence, carried their fire-arms into the meeting house on 
the sabbath, and were firmly determined to resist to the utter- 
most every attack. 

* The bounty jriven to the soldiers raised by the town of Plymouth, 
up to July 11, 1783, amounted to £3056.7.3. all in hard money. 



1781,82,3] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 2l3 

1781. — The town was reduced to the necessity of remonstrat- 
ing to the general court, that, from the many peculiar difficul- 
ties, which they labored under by reason of the war, they were 
unable to pay the taxes, and procure the soldiers the clothing 
and provisions required of them, and praying for an abatement 
or remission of the same. The town voted to instruct their 
representative, Major Joshua Thomas, to use his influence that 
the general court make application to the congress, that our 
commissioners for negotiating a peace make it an article of 
indispensable necessity, that the fishery be restored to us, as 
being of the greatest importance to the town, having hitherto 
depended on it for support. 

1780_ — Captain Horatio Nelson, afterwards Lord Nelson, 
commander of the British ship, Albermarle, took a small 
schooner of 35 tons, in the bay, belonging to Plymouth. After 
she had been used as a tender for some days, Captain Thomas 
Davis, of this town, owner of the vessel, encouraged by the 
representations given by Nathaniel Carver, master of the ves- 
sel, (who with the crew had been liberated,) of the character 
and deportment of Captain Nelson, went on board, Captain 
Carver accompanying him. Some vegetables and fruit, which 
had been hastily collected after the frigate appeared in view of 
the town, were presented, and the vessel was generously re- 
stored, and a certificate was given by Captain Nelson that she 
was released. We honor the noble spirited hero who displays 
the qualities of humanity and benevolence. 

1783. — This year is remarkable for a happy termination of 
the horrors of war, which had for eight years been an awful 
scourge to our country. 

Through the goodness of Divine Providence, liberty and in- 
dependence were obtained. From this era, the United States 
of America claim existence among the nations of the world, 
and no people have ever advanced with more rapid strides to 
pre-eminence in national glory and importance. 

On the first of January this year, the author having terminat- 
ed his services of seven and a half years in the American 
army, became a private citizen, and in March following com- 
menced his professional career in the town of Plymouth. After 
having suffered the ravages and privations incident to a war of 
eight years continuance, the inhabitants of this town, in com- 
mon with the general community, welcomed the return of peace 
with emotions of unfeigned gratitude and joy. Not a few had 
to lament the loss of friends; all were sufferers in their pecu- 
niary interests^but the mighty boon obtained was deemed more 



214 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1785, 86 

than sufficient remuneration for every sacrifice and privation. 
The town was reduced to a state of destitution, its navigation 
almost annihilated, a renewal of the former means of support 
was very precarious, and the taxes now were very heavy. 

1785. — The town has been called to deplore the death of an 
estimable fellow-citizen, Capt. Thomas Davis, who died March 
7th, aged 63 years. He was the head of the respectable firm 
of Davis & Spooner, for many years noted for probity and cor- 
rectness in their mercantile transactions, and for integrity and 
benevolence of character. Captain Davis left six sons and one 
daughter; the latter, Sarah, married Le Baron Bradford, son of 
Lieut. Governor Bradford, of Bristol, R. I. Her only son Le 
Baron, still lives. The sons of Capt. Davis were Thomas, (see 
page 219;) William, John, now Judge of the District Court in 
Boston, and President of the Massachusetts Historical Society, 
Samuel, Isaac and Wendell; the latter was by profession a 
lawyer., and was Sheriff of the county of Barnstable, and died 
at Sandwich, 1831. His remains are deposited among his re- 
latives in our burial ground. 

In town-meeting December 26, 1785. Then voted, and di- 
rected the town treasurer to discount the debt due from the heirs 
of Mr. Thomas Davis, deceased, by paying the said estates, dues 
from the town, when the circumstances of the treasury will admit 
the same, taking into consideration the original gift of money 
by John Murdock, Esq., deceased, viz: the design of that gift. 

1786. — This year is memorable for an alarming insurrection, 
instigated by Daniel Shays, which occasioned the greatest com- 
motion throughout the New England States. There were, in 
almost every town, some who encouraged the insurgents ; but 
in Plymouth, not an individual appeared openly to advocate 
their vile proceedings. The town instructed its representative 
to the general court, to use his influence to have suitable mea- 
sures adopted for the removal of all grievances, and to quiet the 
minds of the people. That he oppose the emission of paper 
money, and discourage the importation of foreign superfluities, 
and articles of British manufacture, &c. 

A detachment of the militia of this town was ordered to 
march to Taunton, to oppose the insurgents in their audacious 
purpose of preventing the sitting of the court of common pleas 
in that place. Gen. Nathaniel Goodwin marched at the head 
of a large detachment of militia from this and other towns. The 
writer of this article accompanied the expedition in the capacity 
of surgeon. A very formidable collection of insurgents made 



1786] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 215 

their appearance, and arrayed themselves in a menacing atti- 
tude on Taunton Green. Gen. David Cobb, judge of the court 
at that place, assumed the command of the militia, and declared 
that he would on that day ' sit as a judge, or die as a geneif^l.' 
The result was a total dispersion of the insurgents without 
bloodshed. 

Among the intrepid patriots who distinguished themselves in 
the naval service during our revolutionary contest, was Simeon 
Sampson, Esq. ' He was born in Kingston, in the year 1736. 
In youth he began a sea-faring life, and performed many im- 
portant voyages in the employment of the merchants of Ply- 
mouth.' In the year 1762, Mr. Sampson was taken prisoner by 
the French, in a vessel belonging to Goodwin & Warren, which 
was redeemed by the captain for a large sum of money, and Mr. 
Sampson was left as a hostage for the payment of the ransom. 
From this imprisonment he escaped by assuming the dress of a 
female, and was soon restored to his family in Plymouth. 

At the commencement of the revolutionary war, when a ma- 
rine force was deemed necessary to protect our commerce from 
the depredations of the British cruisers, he was honored by the 
Provincial Congress of Massachusetts with the appointment of 
the first naval captain in the service of the country. He imme- 
diately took the command of the brig Independence, belonging 
to the colony, and which was built at Kingston, under his direc- 
tion. In this vessel, he was eminently successful, and in one 
cruise captured and sent in five prizes, among which was the 
Roebuck, Captain White, in the autumn of the year 1776. Im- 
mediately after this, he himself was captured by Capt. Dawson, 
of distinguished memory in these seas. Capt. Sampson did not 
surrender, until an engagement of a character as severe and 
bloody as perhaps is recorded in the annals of naval warfare. 
The skill and intrepidity manifested by him was applauded even 
by his enemies. Had he been sustained by all his men, he 
would undoubtedly have been the conqueror, rather than the 
vanquished. It is said in the gazette of that period, that he 
was driven to the awful necessity of running through the body 
two or three of his men, who abandoned their guns in the most 
trying moment of the conflict. One of these victims was his 
third lieutenant. Soon after his return from captivity, which was 
at Fort Cumberland, near Halifax, he was appointed command- 
er of the brig Hazard, a public vessel belonging to the state. 
In this vessel he likewise took several prizes, among which was 
the ship Live Oak. In 1779 he was selected to the command 
of the packet ship Mercury, built at Plymouth, by Mr. John 
Peck, for Congress. She was employed to carry despatches to 



216 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1788-93 

our ministers in France. In this ship he returned from Nantz 
during the severe winter of 1780. Soon after which, he was 
pmmoted to the command of the Mars, a large ship, likewise 
bftnging to the state, and in this vessel he was employed in 
the most responsible trust, in carrying despatches, and in one 
cruise carried out one of our ministers to Europe. The British 
flao- ship Trial was captured by him while in the Warren. At 
the close of the war, he retired, like most of the faithful servants 
of our country, with a very scanty estate, and a numerous fam- 
ily dependent upon him for support. 

In 1788, Capt. Sampson disposed of his mansion in Middle 
street, Plymouth, and purchased a farm in Plympton, where he 
terminated his earthly career by an apoplexy, June 22d, 1789, 
at the age of 53 years. He was buried upon his own farm, and 
afterwai-ds his body was removed to the burying hill in Plymouth, 
where his grave is marked by an appropriate head stone. 

Few naval officers stood higher in public estimation, and few 
citizens were more respected for domestic virtues, hospitality, 
and generous friendship. 

In 1759, Capt. Sampson married Deborah Gushing, daughter 
of Seth Gushing, of Hingham, who survived him many years. 
She died at Homer, New York, in 1830, at the advanced age 
of 90 years. 

The ancestors of Gaptain Sampson will be found among those 
who were distinguished in the Old Golony. His father was 
Peleg Sampson, a principal owner of the iron works at Middle- 
borough, which were suppressed by the Grown. He was born 
in 1700, was a son of Isaac Sampson, who was born in 1660, 
and died in 1726. He married Lydia Standish, daughter of 
Alexander, and grand-daughter of Gapt. Miles Standish and 
John Alden, two of the Mayflower pilgrims. The descendants 
of Gapt. Sampson are not numerous. He left 5 children: 1, 
Lydia, the wife of William Goodwin, Esq., who died 1815; 2, 
Deborah, the wife first of Rev. E. Briggs, afterwards the sec- 
ond wife of W^illiam Goodwin, Esq., died December, 1833; 3, 
Mercy, wife of Major Levi Bradford; 4, George W. Sampson; 
5, Maria, wife of Rev. Mr. Johnson. The three last still sur- 
vive, and reside in the western part of the state of New York. 

1793, — The inhabitants of this town celebrated the victories 
of the French republic over their invaders, by a grand civic 
festival. An animating address was delivered on the occasion 
by Rev. Dr. G. Robbins, which was published. 

This year the town acted in accordance with the town of 
Boston, respecting the measures of neutrality, as recommended 
by President Washington. 



1794-1800] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 217 

1794. — Mrs. Elizabeth Russell, the lady of Hon. Thomas 
Russell, merchant of Boston, presented a bell to the town of 
Plymouth, the place of her nativity; on which occasion a vote 
of thanks was passed, and presented in handsome terms. This 
bell was imported from England, was finely toned, and weighed 
about five hundred and sixty-four pounds. It was unfortunate- 
ly broken in the year 1801, when another was purchased by the 
town, of Col. Revere 's manufacture, weighing about eight 
hundred pounds, which is still in use. The first notice of a 
bell in Plymouth is in 1679, probably the first used in New 
England. 

1799. — In 1799 a singular accident occurred in town, which 
gave me considerable employment. The frame of a house be- 
longing to Capt. John Paty, was erected, two stories high in 
front and three back, the ground falling away considerably in 
the rear. When the frame was put together, and from thirty 
to forty men were, most of them, on the highest floor and the 
roof, from some cause the whole frame fell to the ground on 
the lower side. This accident might have been fatal to num- 
bers, but it is remarkable that no one was killed, and but one 
bone fractured; twenty-one were wounded, more or less severe- 
ly, but all recovered. 

1800. — Death of Washington. The reader may here be re- 
minded that on the 14th December, 1799, the illustrious and be- 
loved Washington paid the debt of nature, and that throughout 
the United States all classes of people mourned the event, as a 
great national calamity. It was recommended by the public 
authorities that the 22d of February, 1800, his birth-day, be 
consecrated, by the whole community, to the remembrance of 
the saviour of our country. Our town authorities directed the 
appropriate arrangements. All business was suspended, stores 
and shops were closed, the shipping in the harbor displayed em- 
blems of mourning, divine service was performed in the sanc- 
tuary, where Rev. Mr. Kendall delivered a well-adapted sermon, 
which was published. Grief and sorrow were depicted on every 
countenance, and the whole people appeared unitedly, as one 
family, bewailing the death of its common father. 

December' 13. — Died in this town, Col. George Watson. 
' The lives and deaths of but few men are more truly enviable 
than Col. Watson's. By an uniform dignity of manners and 
uprightness of conduct, he preserved the respectability of his 
family unsullied to the grave. From early life he entertained 
an invincible abhorrence of those excesses, which, while they 
enfeeble the constitution, make destructive inroads in the order 
of families, an^ harmony o£ society. In the meridian of his 
19 



218 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1802 

days, and amidst the multifarious concerns and solicitudes of 
commercial business, he formed a just estimate of the scenes 
Jleeting before him, and looked forward to an inheritance eternal 
in the heavens. Becoming a member of the most ancient church 
of Christ in New England, he was exemplary in his observance 
of all the institutions of its primitive founders. Blessed with 
affluence, he was always ready to indulge benevolent propensi- 
ties of his nature in affording relief to the necessitous. But 
the best eulogy is the spontaneous tribute of respect paid to his 
remains by the inhabitants of Plymouth, at a town-meeting con- 
vened in consequence of his death. By a recommendation in 
town-meeting the bell was tolled three hours on the day of his 
interment, the inhabitants suspended their usual business, by 
closing their shops and stores, and the shipping in the harbor 
displayed their flags half-mast high. 

The lamented subject of the above eulogium was of an an- 
cient and honorable family; he died at the advanced age of 83 
years. Rev. Mr. Kendall preached a sermon on the occasion 
of his death, which was printed. 

In person. Col. Watson was portly and well-proportioned, his 
countenance noble and placid, and his whole mien truly digni- 
fied. His urbanity and courtesy will long be remembered by 
all who enjoyed his acquaintance. He owned, and resided in 
the house on the south side of North street, now belonging to 
Mr. Abraham Jackson. The beautiful range of linden trees in 
front and rear of his house, he cultivated with peculiar pleasure, 
and delighted himself under their refreshing shade. 

His children were three daughters. Mary married Elisha 
Hutchinson, Esq., son of the governor of Massachusetts, and 
died in England before her father; Sarah, who married Martin 
Brimmer, Esq., merchant, in Boston, and died in August, 1832; 
and Elizabeth, who married Hon. Thomas Russell, Esq., mer- 
chant, in Boston, After his decease, she married Sir Grenville 
Temple, and died at Rome about 1806, leaving three children. 

1802. — WiUiam Thom,as, a physician of extensive practice 
in Plymouth for more than half a century, was born in Boston 
in the year 1718, and died in 1802. He was a descendant in 
the sixth generation from William Thomas, of Welsh extract, 
who arrived in the colony, and settled in Marshfield, about 1630. 
He was in the medical staff in the hazardous and successful 
enterprise against Louisburg in 1745, and at Crown Point in 
1758. Dr. Thomas took a very zealous part in the disputes 
with the mother country, that issued finally in independence. 
After the first blow was struck in the battle of Lexington, in 
1775, he immediately joined himself and his family, consisting 



1803-5] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 219 

of four sons, viz. Joshua, Joseph, John and Nathaniel, to the 
first formed revolutionary corps. The first named of his sons 
was aid de camp to Gen. Thomas, in the expedition to Canada 
in 1776, and after the peace judge of probate for the county of 
Plymouth. Joseph and John continued in the service during 
the war, the first, captain of artillery, and the last in the medical 
staff. On the peace, John established himself at Poughkeepsie 
in the state of New York, in the practice of his profession, and 
died in 1818, leaving a son and daughter. The other sons were 
settled in Plymouth — besides these there was a daughter, 
who married a gentleman by the name of Brick, and settled in 
Charlestown, N. Hampshire. Dr. Wm. Thomas was thrice 
married. The children named above were by the second wife, 
whose maiden name was Bridgham. 

December 22. This anniversary of the landing of our Pil- 
grim fathers on our shore was celebrated in appropriate style, 
by an oration by Hon. John Q,uincy Adams, Esq. The inter- 
esting occasion and the celebrity of the orator drew together an 
immense assembly. The firing of cannon and the military 
parade preceded the assemblage of the people. The oration 
by Mr. Adams was a masterly piece of composition, rarely ex- 
ceeded, and the eloquence displayed by the speaker impressed 
the audience with sensations of delight. An elegant public din- 
ner was provided, and was followed by songs and toasts, and a 
ball closed the evening. 

1803. — A committee was chosen by the town to inquire into 
the circumstances of the Indian lands in this town. They re^ 
ported that the number of acres is 2,683, valued at $14,140. 
The number of Indians in town were fourteen males and thirty- 
five females, with about 15 children under age. This land lies 
on the borders of Sandwich, at a place called Herring Pond. 

1805. — The ship Hibernia, Captain Andrew Farrall, owner 
and commander, was wrecked on our beach January 28th. 
She sailed from Boston on the 26th instant, and being over" 
taken by a violent cold storm, was driven on the beach in the 
night. The captain and five of the seven seamen perished, 
and were buried together on our burial hill, where a stone is 
erected with a suitable inscription. Captain Farrall was aged 
38 years, and was of respectable connexions in Ireland. 

Januarij 21st. — Died in Boston, Hon. Thomas Davis, Esq. 
He was born in Plymouth, 1756, and was the son of Capt. 
Thomas Davis. He received a good school education, which 
he completed under Alexander Scammell. Destined for com- 
merce, while a youth, important concerns devolved upon him, 
in whose management be disgovered that intelligence, integrity 



220 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1805 

and assiduity, which promised and secured success in enter- 
prise. He mingled with the engagements of his busy avoca- 
tion, inquiries into practical science, and became well versed 
in the history and principles of commerce, and the sound max- 
ims and rational theories of government. The derangement of 
the municipal concerns of his native town, first induced him to 
engage in public affairs. Impoverished by the war, and em- 
barrassed by the perplexities, which as often result from futile 
expedients as real distress, it required an intelligent, active, 
and persevering mind, to restore harmony, hope and enterprise. 
Mr. Davis effected it by his natural arrangements. He insisted 
on simplicity, order and punctuality. The result was credit 
and prosperity. His exertions and success acquired him the 
confidence of his townsmen, and produced an attachment 
which has ever been reciprocated. At an early age he was 
elected a representative of his native town to the general 
court, and for many years was continued in that station. From 
this period his whole life has been devoted to public concerns. 
In 1789, he was a member of the Convention to decide on the 
Federal Constitution. In 1792, he was elected a senator of 
this Commonwealth, by the county of Plymouth, and the same 
year was chosen the treasurer of the state, in which office he 
was continued during the constitutional term. On retiring 
from the treasury, he was twice elected a senator for the 
county of Suffolk, when he was unanimously chosen the first 
president of the Boston Marine Insurance Company, in 1799, 
which office he held until his death. Always in public life, 
Mr. Davis retired from the notoriety of a public character. 
He did not take the post of honor for public observation, but 
for the public good. 

The treasury of the Commonwealth, at the time of the ap- 
pointment of Mr. Davis to its direction, owing to our state 
debt, the emission of paper, our national depression after the 
peace, and the deficits in the collectors, was in a most chaotic 
state. The importance of public credit to our peace, honor, 
and prosperity, induced him to undertake the arduous task of 
bringing order out of confusion. His comprehensive mind 
embraced the whole extent of national obligation and national 
resource. Our debt was funded on his system, in which there 
are some of the peculiarities of genius which knows how to 
apply general principles with their exceptions. A sinking fund 
was established for its gradual discharge, which has been suc- 
cessful in its operations. A methodical arrangement was 
adopted in the treasury, and a strict punctuality faithfully ob- 
served and rigidly exacted. Our credit revived, our finances 



1805] ttlSTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 221 

proved adequate to our demands, which in the infancy of a civil 
establishment is not always proportionate to its ability; and at 
the close of Mr. Davis's constitutional term, his report of the 
state of the treasury secured him the thanks and approbation 
of those who best knew the extent of his services, while his 
successors, by pursuing his plans, afford additional evidence of 
their excellence. 

As President of the Boston Marine Insurance Company he 
displayed the whole of his character. His prudence and judg- 
ment in the investment of their capital, his knowledge of the 
princples which applied to his office, and his justice and liber- 
ality in the adjustment of controversies, rendered him a direc- 
tor, counsellor and judge. As an evidence of almost unex- 
ampled confidence in his judgment and integrity, notwithstand- 
ing his interest in this corporation, most of the disputes that 
originated in the office were referred to bis sole decision. He 
exerted here his usual assiduity, investigation and persever- 
ance, and from a studious inquiry into the laws of insurance in 
all countries and ages, his opinions on this most intricate and 
perplexing branch of jurisprudence were respected, not only 
by the mercantile world, but by advocates of professional emi- 
nence. 

His intellectual and moral career was endeared by his social 
and generous feelings. Through the silence of thought and 
the reserve of prudence, were visible the affections of his soul; 
and the irrefragable evidence of his amiable and friendly dispo- 
sition is found in the warmest attachment of a numerous ac- 
quaintance. His charity was as diffiisive as his mind was ac- 
tive, and his friends knew that he was a man who denied the 
sufferer ' nothing but his name.' When it is added to this 
that religion was the base and crown of his virtue, we must 
readily admit that his friends have not been too partial, and the 
world but just in their affection, confidence and praise. 

In the year 1805, the New England Society of the city and 
state of New York was founded ixi that city. The prime object 
of this society was charity, as well as the formation of a bond 
of union and good fellowship among the descendants of New 
England. The numerous instances of charitable relief afforded 
from the ample funds of this highly respectable association re- 
dounds greatly to its honor. The indigent descendants of New 
England are exclusively the objects of this charity. 

The anniversary of the landing of our pilgrim fathers is cele- 
brated annually in New York, and the present number of mem- 
bers amounts to about one thousand. The presidents of the 
society have been — 
19* 



222 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1806-3 

James Watson, Ebenezer Nevens, 

Oliver Wolcott, Lynde Catlin, 

Amasa Jackson, 
For ike present year 1835, the hoard of offi,cers are 

Henry R. Storrs, President; 

Samuel A, Foote, 1st. vice President; 

William Burns, 2d. vice President; 

Robert Buloid, Treasurer. 

Counsellors. 
Elijah Mead, Samuel T. Tisdale, 

Thomas Fessenden, Shephard Knapp. 

There is also a New England society in Charleston, S. C. 
by which the anniversary is annually celebrated. The presi- 
dent is Daniel Crocker, 

1806. — December 22. This was the 186th anniversary of 
the first landing of our puritan fathers. The inhabitants of 
this town, and those from neighboring towns entered into the 
appropriate religious solemnities of the occasion, with hearts 
glovv'ing with gratitude to unite in the merited tribute of re- 
spect to our renowned sires. The discourse was delivered by 
Rev. Abiel Holmes, D. D., of Cambridge. A discourse com- 
ing from a learned divine whose soul is imbued with the spirit 
of the puritans, was exceedingly animating; interesting asso- 
ciations were revived, and a due sense of duty to God and 
gratitude to our fathers awakened and illustrated. A hymn, 
composed by Dr. Holmes for the occasion, was sung to the 
tune of Old Hundred, being read line by line by Deacon 
Spooner.* The services being closed, the company retired 
to a public social festival. A respeciable number of ladies of 
this town, accompanied by strangers, associated together to 
partake of a dinner prepared for them in the hall over the Ply- 
mouth bank. 

1803. — The enforcement of the embargo law occasioned 
great suffering throughout our commercial community. Navi- 
gation was entirely suspended^ our harbors were crowded with 
dismantled vessels, and our seamen were deprived of employ- 
ment, and the means of supporting their families. 

* This alternate reading and sinnjing in the tune of Old Hundred, 
by the venerable Deacon Spooner, in his peculiarly grave and 
plaintive manner, while in liis brown wig and antique costume, 
formed one of the most striking parts of the perfomances, which 
can never be forgotten. A respectable southern lady present was 
so impressed with the scene, that her mind was excited to a high 
state of delight. 



1808] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 223 

*ipril. — The town passed a by-law, as follows, that if any 
person should be found smoking a cigar or pipe in any of the 
streets, lanes, wharves, yards or barns in this town, he or they 
shall fm-feit and pay the sum of $1 for every such offence, to 
be recovered by the firewards, or any other person, that shall 
prosecute and sue for the same, before any justice of the peace 
for the county of Plymouth, to be applied to the use of the 
poor of said town; and that parents and guardians, and mas- 
ters of minors, shall be liable to pay the fine above said for 
their children, wards, or apprentices, who shall offend in this 
particular. 

August. — A meeting of the town was called, by the request 
of 163 inhabitants, to present a petition to President Jefferson 
to take off the embargo. It v/as not uncommon to see seamen 
thronging the wharves, cursing the embargo, and the authors 
of it. They petitioned Mr. Jefferson that it might be taken off, 
if in his power, or that congress might be called together for 
the purpose. The petition expressed the deplorable situation 
to which the town was reduced, deprecating the policy of the 
measure and the horrid consequences of it, and closing thus; 
— ' Prohibitory laws that subject the citizens to grievous priva- 
tions and sufferings, the policy of which is at least questiona- 
ble, and the temptations to the violations of which from the 
nature of man, are almost irresistible, will gradually under- 
mine the morals of society, and introduce a laxity of principle 
and contempt of the laws, more to be deplored than even the 
useless waste of property. 

'From these, and other weighty considerations, your memo- 
rialists pray the president, wholly or partially to suspend the 
embargo laws, if his powers are competent to that object, and 
if not, to convene Congress at an early period, that an imme- 
diate repeal of them may be obtained.* 

To the above manly and decided petition, Mr. Jefferson re- 
turned an answer, the purport of which is: 'To have submitted 
our rightful commerce to prohibitions and tributary exactions 
from others, would have been to surrender our independence. 
To resist them by arms was war, without consulting the state 
of things or the choice of the nation. The alternative pre- 
ferred by the legislature, of suspending a commerce placed 
under such unexampled difficulties, besides saving to our citi- 
zens their property and our mariners to their country, has the 
peculiar advantage of giving time to the belligerent nations to 
revise a conduct, as contrary to their interest as it is to our own 
rights. In the event of such peace, or suspension of hostili- 
ties, between the belligerent powers of Europe, or of such 



224 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1808 

change in their measures affecting neutral commerce, as may 
render that of the United States sufficiently safe, in the judg- 
ment of the president, he is authorised to suspend the embargo; 
but no peace, or suspension of hostilities, no change of mea- 
sures affecting neutral commerce, is known to have taken place. 
In fact, we have no information on which prudence would un- 
dertake a hasty change in our policy, even were the authority of 
the executive competent to such a decision. I should with 
great willingness have executed the wish of the inhabitants of 
Plymouth, had peace, or a repeal of the obnoxious edicts, or 
other changes produced the cause in which alone the laws have 
given me the authority, and so many motives of'justice and in- 
terest lead to such changes, that we ought continually to ex- 
pect them; but while these edicts remain, the legislature alone 
can prescribe the course to be pursued.' 

July 25. — Died Isaac Lothrop, Esq., aged 73 years. He 
was born at Plymouth, December 11, 1736, and was the eldest 
of five children of Isaac Lothrop, Esq., mentioned in page 171. 
He was educated a merchant, but from the year 1778 he con- 
fined himself to his official duties as register of probate for the 
county, which office he retained till his death. The unbending 
uprightness that marked his conduct in this office, the ability 
and gentlemanly manner with which he discharged the duties 
of it, will long be remembered with affectionate respect. He 
cherished with lively ardor a natural fondness for antiquity; 
and so exalted was his veneration for the pious planters in 
New England, who first landed in this town, that he delighted 
in tracing their every footstep, and the minutest circumstances 
. of their history were treasured in his mind. Hence, soon after 
the institution of the Historical Society, he was elected a mem- 
ber, and among the earliest members of the Humane Society 
he enrolled his name. In ' his friendships he was steady, ar- 
dent, sincere; undisguised in his feelings, and removed from 
the least tincture of duplicity, his bosom was the sacred depos- 
( itory of confidential intercourse. If his prejudices were strong, 
(_they were invariably pointed at what he devoutly believed to be 
J proffigacy in principle, or dishonesty in practice. Such in fine 
was Mr. Lothrop's scrupulous integrity, such his thorough de- 
testation of every species of iniquitous, or even temporising 
b procedure, that the inscription on the tombstone of his beloved 
pfather, would be an appropriate one for his own. (Seepage 171.) 
f( Hon. James Warren. — This gentleman, a lineal descendant 
c^f Richard Warren, who came over in the xVlayflower, was 
®'born in Plymouth in the year 1726, and was the son of James 
^Warren, who held the office of sheriff of the county of Ply- 
mouth, under the royal government. Having graduated at 



1808] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 225 

Harvard College, in 1745, he directed his attention to commer- 
cial affairs, and became a respectable merchant ; after the 
death of his father, who left him a handsome estate, he was 
appointed to the office of sheriff, which he retained until the 
commencement of the war with Great Britain. In May, 1766, 
he was chosen a member of the general court from Plymouth, 
and he uniformly supported the rights of his country against 
the pretensions of Parliament. His education, abilities, and 
integrity, eminently qualified him to stand forth at a crisis 
when talent, principle, and energy were required to devise and 
execute measures of resistance with unshaken firmness. He 
has the reputation of originating, in conjunction with Samuel 
Adams, the plan of committes of safety and correspondence in 
the various towns and counties. He was, in 1775, chosen a 
member of the provincial congress, and, immediately after the 
death of Gen. Joseph Warren, he was appointed as his succes- 
sor, as president of that honorable body. While the army lay 
at Cambridge, in 1775, he was made paymaster general, but 
in the following year, when the troops marched to New York, 
he resigned. In 1776, he was appointed Major General of the 
militia of Massachusetts, but never acted in that capacity. 
After the formation of the constitution of this state, he was, for 
many years, speaker of the house of representatives. He was 
elected lieut. governor^^under Hancock, in 1780, but declined 
the office, as he did, also, that of judge of the supreme court, 
to which he had been appointed. He accepted, however, from 
congress, the appointment of commissioner of the navy board, 
at that time an arduous and responsible office, in which he 
served for some time. 

At the close of the war, General Warren retired from public 
employment to enjoy domestic ease and leisure, and devoted 
the remainder of his life principally to agricultural improve- 
ments on his farm, and to the cultivation of the virtues best 
becoming an exemplary and respected private citizen. He was 
drawn from his retirement, however, for a short period, to ac- 
cept a seat in the council, and again, in 1804, when he perform- 
ed the last act of his long labors for the public, in the dis- 
charge of the duty of an elector of president, giving his vote 
fof Mr. Jefferson. 

General Warren resided, for some years during the war, at 
the splendid seat at Milton, formerly belonging to Governor 
Hutchinson,* but returned to his former mansion in Plymouth, 

* The famous, Hutchinson letters were carried to General Warren's 
house, and read confidentially, before they were published. 



226 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1809-12 

at the corner of North street, where he died, November 28th, 
1808, aged eighty-two years, venerable from his age, and the 
valuable services rendered to his country in the darkest and 
most trying periods of its history. 

General Warren married the daughter of the Hon. James 
Otis, of Barnstable, and sister to the celebrated patriot and 
orator of that name. This lady was the author of a history of 
the war, and was, with her husband, a strenuous advocate of 
the principles of the revolution, and, subsequently, of the Jef- 
ferson administration and politics. She survived her husband 
about six years, and died in 1814, at the age of eighty-six. 

They left two sons, James, who was, for several years, post- 
master here, and Henry, who, for many years, held the office 
of collector, for the district of Plymouth, and died July 6th, 
1828, aged sixty- four years. This gentleman will long be 
remembered for his social qualities, his hospitahty, and his 
gentlemanly deportment. 

1809. — T^ie town voted to petition the state legislators, that 
they devise and pursue such measures as their judgment shall 
dictate, to reheve the people from the severe pressure under 
which they are suffering from the embargo laws. 

1812. — July. At a meeting of the town, on account of the 
momentous aspect of our public affairs, occasioned by an im- 
pending war, particularly distressing and ruinous to this section 
of our country, voted to memorialize the president on its im- 
policy and injustice, and to protest against an alliance with des- 
potic France, whose friendship, more than its enmity, has been 
fatal to every other republic on the globe. 

The town was unanimous for peace and not for war. 

The memorial to the President, was couched in respectful, 
yet firm language, reprobating the whole system of commer- 
cial restrictions, by embargo and war, as absolutely ruinous to 
the best interest of our country, particularly the Eastern States. 
They entreat the President to interpose his power and influ- 
ence to rescue them from scenes of horror, from the near pros- 
pects of which, hope, the solace of the wretched, flies away, 
and which, in their apprehensions, will endanger the existence 
of the social compact; praying him to avert the host of calam- 
ities that in repeated succession must follow a war with Great 
Britain. 

When hostilities had actually commenced the memorial pro- 
ceeds to reprobate the measure in the following strong lan- 
guage: — "Thus, Sir, with much brevity, but with a frankness 
that the magnitude of the occasion demands, they have ex- 
pressed their honest sentiments upon the existing offensive war 



1812, 13, 14] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 227 

against Great Britain, a war by which their dearest interest as 
men and christians is deeply affected, and in which they dehb- 
erately declare, as they cannot conscientiously, so they will not 
have any voluntary participation. They make this declaration 
with that paramount regard to their civil and religious obliga- 
tions, which becomes the disciples of the Prince of Peace, 
whose kingdom is not of this world, and before whose impartial 
tribunal presidents and kings will be upon a level with the mean- 
est of their fellow men, and will be responsible for all the blood 
they shed in wanton and unnecessary war. Impressed with 
these solemn considerations, with an ardent love of country and 
high respect for the union of the states, your memorialists en- 
treat the president immediately to begin the work of peace, with 
that unaffected dignity and undisguised sincerity, which distin- 
guished one of our illustrious predecessors, and they have 
the most satisfactory conviction, that upright, sincere efforts 
will secure success, while the land is undefiled with the blood 
of its citizens, and before the demon of slaughter, thirsting for 
human victims, 'cries havoc and lets slip the dogs of war.'" 
The town then passed several resolves, expressing, in the most 
unequivocal language, their disapprobation of the war. They 
then passed a resolution, disapproving the conduct of the 
representative of the district in congress, who advocated all the 
obnoxious war measures, and voted for the war, — which reso- 
lution, they voted should be sent to the said representative. 

The arch stone bridge, over the town brook, was this year 
completed. 

1813. — The ship Sally, belonging to Boston, put into this port 
from Canton, having, as passenger, a Chinese gentleman, Mr. 
Washey. He was a young man, tall and comely, but of dark 
complexion, of mild aspect, and pleasing manners. He attend- 
ed public worship on the Sabbath, and being habited in the cos- 
tume of his country, attracted great attention. 

1814. — Being in a state of war with Great Britain, and the 
harbor and town constantly exposed to the attacks of British 
ships and barges, application was made to the towns of Kings- 
ton and Duxbury to unite in measures of defence for the harbor, 
which was complied with. A committee of vigilance and safety 
was appointed, and a night watch to patrol the streets. In 
June, a committee was appointed to make application to the 
governor and council, for a supply of the munitions of war ad- 
equate to the defence of the town, and such other aid as may 
be deemed proper; the request was promptly complied with, 
the necessary munitions were supplied, and a regiment of mili-- 
tia, under the command of Col. Caleb Howard, was ordered to 



228 HisTORvr of Plymouth. [1815, 16 

take their station here for our defence, which gave the place the 
aspect of a garrison town, for several months. 

1815. — April 22d, died in this town the Hon. William Wat- 
son, Esq. He was born May 6th, 1730, and graduated at 
Harvard college, 1751. This gentleman ranked himself among 
the respectable whigs and patriots of our revolution, and was 
ever a zealous advocate for the rights and liberties of his coun- 
try. As a professor of religion he was exemplary, giving punc- 
tual attendance to its ordinances and duties. His moral virtue 
and integrity were unquestionable, and entitled him to the con- 
fidence of those authorities by whom he was appointed to public 
offices. In 1775, he was appointed the first postmaster ever in 
this town, by our provincial congress; and on the 28th Septem- 
ber, 1782, lie was by the general court appointed to the office 
of naval officer for the port of Plymouth. In 1789, he received 
a commission, under the hand of Washington, as collector of 
the port of Plymouth, which office he sustained till 1803, when 
he was removed by the succeeding President. In 1790, he was 
appointed, under the authority o^ the United States, Deputy 
Postmaster, to officiate as postmaster at Plymouth. This last 
commission was signed by Timothy Pickering. Mr. Watson's 
children now living, are, Elizabeth, who is the widow of Hon. 
Nathaniel Niles, and Ellen, the wife of Hon. John Davis. 

1816. — The town voted to employ Dr. Sylvanus Fancher to 
inoculate the inhabitants with the kine pox, at the expense of 
the town, which was done, and 2,800, chiefly of the young in- 
habitants, were vaccinated. 

May 17. A committee, chosen by the town, to makeinquiry 
into the conduct of retailers of spirituous liquors, reported ' that 
they are deeply impressed with the magnitude of the evil, and 
with the serious consequences that will probably result to the 
rising generation, if some seasonable check cannot be put to 
the practice. Aware of the odium that attaches itself to those, 
who, from official duty, are led to oppose the views and emolu- 
ments of interested individuals, we would not leave to the fathers 
of the town to encounter the hydra alone; we would, therefore, 
recommend to every honest, discreet, and sober-minded inhab- 
itant of the town, to set his face against the practice, as he 
would regard the interest, prosperity, and comfort of his fellow 
creatures, and would preserve the rising generation from moral 
pollution and degeneracy, and that they would unite their effi^rts 
with those of the selectmen and civil officers of the town, to 
discountenance and suppress this alarming, this crying sin. 
They would, also, recommend, that the selectmen, overlooking 
all past transgressions in this respect, be enjoined, peremptorily 



1817] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 229 

and perse veringly, to withhold their approbation from any per- 
son, whom they shall hereafter know, or very strongly suspect, 
to be guilty of a violation of the law. 

' Your committee hope they shall be excused, if they exceed 
the bounds of their commission, when they express their firm 
conviction, that a systematic perseverance in discharging the 
painful duty of putting under guardianship such citizens as are 
notoriously intemperate, will be one remedy, among others, of 
the evil in question.' The report was accepted. 

1817. — December ^2. The 187th anniversary of the memo- 
rable event of the landing of the forefathers, was celebrated in 
the usual style. The discourse on this occasion was delivered 
by the Rev. Horace Holley, of Boston, whose well-known ora- 
torical powers were exerted in the happiest manner, and afford- 
ed great delight and satisfaction to his numerous auditors, 

Mr. Holley contemplated the scenery about our harbor, our 
burial hilL, and the rock, and held a conversation with Deacon 
Spooner in the morning, which roused the best energies of his 
nature, and nerved his faculties to their noblest display. In 
his discourse he observed that he had that morning received 
some new recollections, and made the following allusion in refer- 
ence to the venerable Spooner: ' Our venerable friend knew 
and conversed with Elder Faunce, who personally knew the 
first settlers, so Polycarp conversed with St. John, the beloved 
disciple of our Saviour.-' 

On this interesting occasion, Deacon Spooner officiated by 
reading the Psalm, in the ancient form, line by line, and this 
closed the religious services of this venerable man, who, for so 
many years, had been constantly seen in his appropriate seat in 
the sanctuary of his God. He died on the sabbath, March 22, 
1818, in the 83d year of his age. Rev. Mr. Kendall preached 
an occasional sermon on the following sabbath, taking for his 
text, ' The hoary head is a crown of glory, if it be found in the 
way of righteousness.' The following biographical sketch of 
Deacon Spooner was written by an intimate and venerable com- 
panion and friend of the deceased.* 

' Died at Plymouth, on Lord's day morning, the Hon. Eph- 
raim Spooner, in the 83d year of his age. 

' It would not merely be injustice to the deceased, but injury 
to the living, to suffer the life of a man distinguished by such 
pre-eminent usefulness and active benevolence, as was that of 
Deacon Spooner, to pass unnoticed. 

' Deacon Spooner, by his native, beneficent disposition, suavi- 

* Hon. Joshua Thomas. 
20 



1230 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1818 

ty of manners, and constant readiness to oblige, early recom- 
mended himself to general notice. In the intercourse of so- 
cial life, the expressions of his civility and kindness were un- 
commonly ardent, and to strangers might appear to be some- 
what overstrained; but they who intimately knew him, can 
vouch with great confidenco that he never made a tender of 
service in which he was not sincere, nor dispensed a favor that 
did not flow spontaneously from the heart; and it may be safely 
added, that he never intentionally did a wrong thing, nor 
thought a mean one. His fellow-townsmen, impressed with his 
worth and assiduity, introduced him into the various respecta- 
ble offices of the town, and his election as town-clerk for fifty- 
two years in succession, and which he retained until his death, 
amidst the struggles and conflicts of party, satisfactorily evinced 
the upright and faithful manner with which he discharged the 
respective offices he sustained. 

' In opposition to the iniquitous system of policy adopted by 
Great Britain to enthral her colonies, his whole soul was en- 
gaged. As his industry was continual, nothing in his power 
was left unessayed to promote, in his language, " the glorious 
cause,^' and the writer of this article could mention instances of 
sacrifices he offered at the shrine of his country, and of won- 
derful exertions he made to procure subsistence for the indi- 
gent during the distressing period of the war of the revolution, 
that would excite the admiration of all men acquainted with 
the common principles of human actions. But his patriotism, 
though in a high degree zealous, had not the least tincture of 
bitterness, and in the distribution of his charities, party feeling 
had no participation, — a pure philanthropy seeemed to have 
marked him for her own. 

* Universal good-will being so conspicuous a feature in the 
character of Deacon Spooner, it is unnecessary to state the 
warmth of his affection in the relation of husband and parent, 
or the ardor of his attachment as a friend. 

' In the year 1790, he was appointed by the Executive, an 
associate justice of what is called the old court of common 
pleas, and held this office till that court was abolished. Being 
educated a merchant, his friends cannot claim for him great in- 
formation in legal science; but a quick, natural discernment, 
and inflexible rectitude of intention, generally guided him to 
cornsct decisions. If any mistaken bias was ever discovered 
in his opinions, it was insensibly produced by his strong sym- 
pathies with the unfortunate. He represented the town of Ply- 
mouth in the legislature several years with his usual activity 
and perseverance, and finished his political career as a member 
*q£ the Executive Council. 



1818] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 231 

' But the highest point in the character of Deacon Spooner 
is yet to be named. He was, from full conviction, a christian, 
and for more than fifty years made public profession of his re- 
ligion, and for thirty-four years, officiated, without blemish, in 
the office of deacon at the altar of the First Church of Christ 
in Plymouth, and the first in New England. Imbibing the 
heavenly temper of his master, like him he went about doing 
good, whenever opportunity presented, without cold calcula- 
tions on the measure of his ability; 'and in the meekness of 
his opposition and mildness of censure,' resembled the beloved 
disciple. His piety was without bigotry, and his devotion 
without enthusiasm. No abstruse polemic divinity, no meta- 
physical disquisitions on the nature of faith, perplexed the 
simplicity of his creed, and alienated him from his fellow christ- 
ians; piety to God and benevolence to man being with him the 
sole test of orthodoxy and discipleship. 

' Only about four weeks before his own death. Deacon Spoon- 
er buried his wife, with whom he had lived fifty-five years, in 
the most entire harmony, walking cheerfully together in the 
christian course, and in the ordinances of the gospel; and the 
pious fortitude and calm resignation he exhibited on that occa- 
sion, will not admit of doubt that they are again united in shout- 
ing the divine praises. 

* Accept, venerable departed shade, this small tribute of re- 
spect to the memory of thy friendship, greatly beloved in life, 
deeply lamented in death.' 

A pecuUar courtesy and politeness of manners, and good feel- 
ing, were inherent in the nature of our deceased friend. Nu-^ 
merous amusing anecdotes, characteristic of the man, might be 
adduced, but they must be omitted. 

Mr. Spooner was a genuine philanthropist, and no man was 
more ready to interpose the kind office of friendship towards a 
neighbor. So ardent was his patriotism, and such his influ- 
ence, that on more than one occasion when the town was driven 
to great extremity for money for the purpose of raising soldiers 
for the army, and procuring supplies for them and for their 
families, he had the address to obtain a loan of a wealthy gen- 
tleman who was a royalist. Deacon Spooner married Eliza- 
beth ShurtlefT, and their surviving children are Sally, James^ 
and Ebenezer. 

March Sth. — Died in this town Nathaniel Goodwin, Esq.^ 
aged seventy years. He was the son of a respectable mer- 
chant, and was educated to that profession under parental care 
in early life. He established himself by a commendable course 
of industry and perseverance. He was found among the slq^ 



232 



HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 



[1820 



tive patriots of our revolution, and entered the public service 
in the office of major of militia, and was attached to Col. Ger- 
rish's regiment, stationed at Boston and Cambridge, to guard 
the conventional troops taken under Burgoyne at Saratoga. He 
was also in the expedition to Rhode Island, in the capacity of 
major, in 1778. Subsequently, he was promoted to the rank 
of brigadier, and that of major-general of militia, which office 
he sustained with honor until his death. He was for many 
years a representative to our legislature, and an acting magis- 
trate, and displayed the qualities of an impartial judge. In all 
his avocations he was found capable and assiduous as a useful 
citizen, and was held in respect for his probity, integrity, and 
other moral virtues. General Goodwin left sons and daugh- 
ters; the oldest son, Nathaniel, is the present cashier of the 
Plymouth bank. Ezra Shaw, the youngest son, was educated in 
the ministry, and was the learned and respected pastor of the 
first church and society at Sandwich. He died greatly lament- 
ed February 5th, 1833, and his grateful people erected a mar- 
ble monument to his memory with the following inscription: 



In Memory 
of 
Rev. Ezra Shaw 
goodwiiv, 
Pastor 
of the 
First 
Congregational Church 
and Society 
in Sandwich, 
who died 
Feb. 5th, A. D. 1833, 
in the 46th year . 
of his age, 
and in the 
twentieth year 
of his ministry. 



This memorial 

of their 
beloved Pastor, 
is here placed 
by the bereaved flock, 
with grateful 
recollections 
of the services, 
virtues and endowments 
of their pious instructor, 
their enlightened guide, 
their faithful counsellor, 
their constant work-fellow 
in the cause of 
Christian liberty, 
their cherished associate, 
their generous 
and affectionate 
friend. 



Absent in the flesh, yet 
with us in the spirit. 



1820. — As the present year closes the second century since 
the pilgrim fathers first landed on our shores, a respectable 
number of the inhabitants of this town, impelled by a sense of 
duty and pious gratitude to divine Providence, have instituted 



1820] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 233 

a society, which was by our legislature incorporated February 
24th, by the name of Pilgrim Society. The design of this as- 
sociation is to commemorate this great historical event, and to 
perpetuate the character and virtues of our ancestors to pos- 
terity. In accordance with these views they proceeded to 
erect a durable monumental edifice in this town, for the ac- 
commodation of the meetings of said society, and as a memo- 
rial sacred to the memory of the founders of our nation. 

Centennial Celebration of the Landing of the PilgrimSy De- 
cember 22ci. — The period now recurs when we commemorate, 
with peculiar solemnity, the momentous event which gave 
birth and existence to our nation, with all which is valuable in 
the civil, literary and religious establishments in New Eng- 
land. This day completes the second century since our shores 
were first impressed by the footsteps of civilized men. The 
Pilgrim Society, desirous of giving to the solemnities appro- 
priate dignity and permanent effect, selected a gentleman of 
the first talents, Hon. Daniel Webster, as their orator. After 
a well-adapted prayer by the Rev. Dr. Kirkland, president of 
Harvard University, the speaker entertained the audience for 
about two hours. This address was all that could be anticipat- 
ed or conceived. It was correct in its historical statements, 
powerful in argument, rich in description, and pathetic and 
eloquent in action. The characters and principles, the suffer- 
ings and virtues of the pilgrim puritans were portrayed with 
great justice and felicity. The useful and glorious efforts of 
their wisdom and enterprise, and independent love of truth, 
were fully displayed to the judgment and feelings of an intelli- 
gent and delighted audience. But we are sensible of the diffi- 
culty of doing justice to this appropriate and splendid perform- 
ance, and must refer to the discourse itself for a just sense of 
its pre-eminent merits. The concourse of people was im- 
mense, far more numerous than on any former occasion; and a 
great portion of them from our most distinguished and respect- 
able citizens. A procession was formed at 11 o'clock, soon 
after the business of the Pilgrim Society was transacted, and 
escorted by the Standish Guards, a neat independent company, 
lately organized, and commanded by Capt; Coomer Weston, 
moved through the main street of the town to the meeting- 
house, and, after the services of the sanctuary, were attended 
by the same corps to the new court-house, wliere they sat 
down to an elegant, though simple repast, provided in a style 
very proper for the occasion, where the company was served 
with the treasures both of the land' and the sea. Among other 
aflTecting memorials, calhng to mind the distresses of the pil- 
20* 



234 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1820 

grims, were five kernels of parched corn placed on each plate, 
alluding to the time in 1623, when that was the proportion al- 
lowed to each individual on account of the scarcity. John 
Watson, Esq., respectable by his years, and dignified by his 
gentlemanly manners, and the only surviving member of the 
Old Colony Club, presided during the hours of dinner. The 
Hon. Joshua Thomas, president of the Pilgrim Society, to the 
great regret of the gentlemen present, was prevented from at- 
tending, by severe illness. Mr. Watson was assisted by Hon. 
William Davis, of Plymouth, and Alden Bradford, Esq., of 
Boston, and the following gentlemen, by request of the presi- 
dent, acted as vice-presidents, viz., Hon. T. Bigelow, Hon. L. 
Lincoln, William Jackson, Esq., Judah Alden, Esq., William 
R. Rotch, Esq., and F. C. Gray, Esq. Good humor and good 
feelings were displayed in every countenance, and expressed 
by a constant interchange of friendly greetings and ardent con- 
gratulations; and such was the decorum and propriety of de- 
portment through the day, that even the stern pilgrims might 
have looked down without rebuke. After the regular toasts 
were announced, Mr. Bradford rose and observed to the mem- 
bers of the Pilgrim Society (and the company) that he had 
been requested by their president, Judge Thomas, to express 
his great regret in not being able to join them in the solemni- 
ties of the day; to assure them that he had anticipated the 
joyous celebration with peculiar interest and pleasure, and that 
while life was continued to him, it would be his ardent wish to 
promote the objects of the association, in cherishing a grateful 
remembrance of the virtues of the pilgrims, and in giving his 
support to their principles and institutions. The ibllowing, 
communicated by Judge Thomas, was then given and received 
with great approbation; and the cry of ' encore, encore,' was re- 
peated from every part of the hall. '■ Our Forefathers' Creed; 
Law, Liberty, and Religion; If their descendants would pre- 
serve the two first, let them not expunge the third article.'* 

Hon. Judge Davis then proposed a toast for the health of 
Judge Thomas, whose cheering society and acceptable super- 
intendence we had been accustomed to enjoy on these anni- 
versaries. 

After the first toast was drank, the Hon. Judge Davis, Presi- 
dent of the Historical Society, who, with several of the mem- 
bers, had been appointed a committee to congratulate the Pil- 

* Judge Thomas's toast alluded to the tliird article in our Bill of 
Rights ;"tl.e question of expunging it was then under consideration 
ia ihe state convention.. 



1820] HISTaRY OF PLYMOUTH. 235 

grim Society on this interesting occasion, addressed them as 
follows : — 

' M7\ President and Gentlemen of the Pilgrim Society. — The 
celebration of this memorable day, which excites such just and 
general notice, could not fail to engage the attention of the 
Massachusetts Historical Society. Their pursuits are in unison 
with the objects of your association, and they cheerfully accept 
your invitation to this interesting festival. In behalf of that 
society, and as chairman of their committee, appointed for 
this purpose, it is my grateful office to present to you their 
congratulations, and to express their cordial sympathy in the 
sentiments of veneration which you so eminently cherislf for 
the founders of our race. 

' With this manifestation of our fraternal regard, permit me, 
in their behalf, to request your acceptance of an entire copy of 
their collections. By these publications, many precious memo- 
rials of our ancestors have been rescued from oblivion, and we 
w*oiild wish them to find a place in the library of your institution. 

' The annual celebrations of the landing of the fathers on this 
memorable ground, have been uniformly regarded with com- 
placency. Statesmen, sages, and scholars, the busy and the 
contemplative, the aged and the young, all delight to participate 
in the pious recollections with which you are animated. 

' The toils and perils of suffering virtue — the objects and 
aims, the struggles and the rewards of the pilgrims, furnish a 
most instructive lesson, and are reviewed with tender emotions. 
In them the painter finds a subject for the happiest effort of his 
pencil — poetry offers her garland, and the sons of genius are 
emulous of your appointment to the principal performance of 
the day. This is no common holiday. On the present occa- 
sion, the completion of the second century since the landing of 
our fathers, the impressions habitually connected with your cel- 
ebrations assume a deeper interest. Visitors from every direc- 
tion repair to your respected residence, and many of the fair 
daughters of the land, regardless of the severity of the season, 
express a kindred spirit with the wives and daughters of the 
pilgrims, and unite in your reverential homage. Scenes, which 
are to you familiar, attract the attention of your guests. They 
gaze on the wintry wave which dashes on your shore, for there 
they seem to espy the approaching shallops; and on that shore 
they trace, in imagination, the footsteps of the unsheltered 
wanderers. They survey the streams, and drink at the springs 
which invited the weary exiles here to commence their settle- 
ment. They ascend the height^ where yet are seen the out- 
lines of the first footsteps of the Pilgrims, and their first place 



23ft HisraRY of Plymouth. [1820 

of worship. There rest the remains of the departed worthies. 
No monument to their memory appears in the hallowed ground; 
but every heart erects a monument, while it dwells with holy 
musings on the life and death of the righteous, on the sure re- 
surrection of the just. 

Mt is a happy privilege to live to witness this day, and to 
unite with kindred minds in its services. To the Pilgrim So- 
ciety is committed the dignified trust of perpetuating these filial 
observances. Under such auspices, we are assured that these 
annual solemnities will ever preserve their just and appropriate 
character. Most cordially, gentlemen, do we wish prosperity 
and honor to your institution. 

^ The purposes of its establishment are generous and elevat- 
ed. They touch the heart, and open to the intellectual view the 
most impressive considerations; for truth, freedom, patriotism, 
social order, religion, all the lofty aims and characteristics of 
humanity, are associated with the objects of your society, and 
with the incidents which we are assembled to commemorate. 
Your recollections will attest that this is no exaggeration, and 
what we have this day heard affords abundant confirmation of 
the rich variety which the ^ short and simple annals of the poor' 
can furnish for the exercise of intellectual energy and discrim- 
inating observation. We have witnessed the affecting and sub- 
lime reflection presented to a devout and benevolent mind, from 
the brief history of our ancestors; and the auspicious conse- 
quences, springing from the most humble beginnings, are con- 
soling to every friend of man, and encouraging to the cause of 
truth and virtue. 

* The ' stricken deer that left the herd ' were not destined 
to perish ; the loilderness and the solitary place are glad for them, 
and the desert blossoms as the rose.' 

Tho Rev. Dr. Kendall, one of the trustees of the Pilgrim 
Society, by their request, and in their behalf, replied with great 
feeling and propriety. He spoke of the great respectability 
and utility of the Historical- Society, by the instrumentality of 
which, so much that was important and interesting in the early 
history of the country, and particularly of .the adventures and 
principles of the pilgrim fathers, was collected and preserved. 
In referring to the virtues and su^erings, the faith and piety of 
our fathers, he paid a just tribute to their precious memories; 
and expressed a hope, that these celebrations, devoted to the 
recollection of their services in the cause of religion and the 
rights of conscience, would have the happy effect of strengthen- 
ing our love of pure and unadulterated Christianity, and increas- 
ing our attachment to the correct principles, the moral habits, 



1820] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 237 

and social virtues, the civil and religious institutions of the puri- 
tan founders of New England, to whose zeal ajid firmness and 
perseverance we owe so much. 

The Hon. Mr. Lincoln, one of the vice-presidents, of the 
American Antiquarian Society, also offered congratulations to 
the members of the Pilgrim Society, and made the following 
address: 

' Mr. President, — The American Antiquarian Society, by 
their attending officers and members, beg to be indulged the 
pleasure of publicly proflering the most cordial congratulations 
to the Pilgrim Society, upon their organization, and upon the 
auspicious circumstances under which they are convened on 
this highly interesting occasion. The spot endeared by all the 
associated recollections of the first landing of our forefathers, is 
best consecrated to their fame, by the joyous commemoration of 
their valor and virtues,, and a grateful recognition of the priva- 
tions they patiently endured, and of the work they gloriously 
accomplished. Two centuries have now passed since in the 
rigor of an inclement season, in the desolation of a wilderness, 
amidst savages and beasts of prey, the tread of Christians im- 
pressed these shores with the first footsteps of civilization. The 
hazard in corporeal existence which they incurred, the struggle 
for self-preservation which they maintained, their undaunted 
energy in danger, their unbending integrity in temptation, their 
pious resignation in suffering, their fear and worship of God, 
and their regard for and love of each other, are themes, which 
on every occasion of remembrance, swell with enthusiastic ad- 
miration the hearts of their descendants. Forever cherished 
be these recollections! Forever honored be the names and char- 
acters of the pilgrims! On every recurring anniversary of their 
landing may this first scene of their trials and their sufferings, 
their conflicts and their endurance, be hallowed by the personal 
homage of those who are worthy to inherit the rich fruits of 
their triumph. May the Pilgrim Society eminently flourish, and 
with its success may public gratitude be excited towards all 
those enlightened, munificent and patriotic men whose merits 
and exertions the occasion has hitherto been had in honor, and 
who are now associated to make the record of that occasion 
permanent.* 

By the request of the president, Mr. Secretary Bradford, a 
trustee of the Pilgrim Society addressed the officers and mem- 
bers of the Antiquarian Society, who were present, as a dele-, 
gation specially appointed, and observed that the honorable 
notice taken of the Pilgrim Society, and the approbation ex- 
pressed as to its views and objects, were highly gratifying to the 



238 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1821 

members of the association; that the generous congratulations, 
tendered on the occasion, were cordially reciprocated; that the 
best wishes of the friends of our forefathers attended the Amer- 
ican Antiquarian Society for success in their honorable purpos- 
es and expressed a hope that the result of their several asso- 
ciations would be a more extensive and efficient sentiment in 
favor of the civil and religious institutions of our beloved 
country. 

Mr. B's reply was made without opportunity for preparation. 
The above-mentioned societies had been invited by the Pilgrim 
Society to attend the celebration. 

A splendid ball in the evening closed the festivities of this 
memorable day. The company was numerous beyond any ever 
recollected to have been convened in that place. 

The hall was decorated with great taste, and the costume of 
the ladies was at once beautiful and uniform, as if there had 
been an understanding to avoid mere show and expense, and to 
study appropriate simplicity united with real elegance; and it 
was indeed a pleasant scene, where we might look around on a 
company of six hundred of different ages, among whom inno- 
cent mirth, and social feelings were so eminently prevalent. 
And it is highly satisfactory to reflect that the amusements, such 
as these, where excess is avoided and the more sober spirit 
sheds an influence to restrain all improper levity, are not incom- 
patible with a love of genuine virtue and respect for the stern 
characters of our pious and venerated ancestors. 

The inhabitants of this most ancient town in New England 
were highly gratified by the collection of respectable citizens 
from all parts of the state; and those who made this pleasant 
pilgrimage to the rock of our fathers were equally gratified by 
the attention, civility and hospitality shown them by the families 
residing on this consecrated spot. The object of the Pilgrim 
Society was highly approved, and many new members were 
added on the 22d inst. 

Mr. Webster's Oration soon passed through three editions, 
and the generous spirited author would not appropriate any part 
of the profits of the copy right to himself, but presented it as a 
donation to the Pilgrim Society, by which one hundred dollars 
were added to its funds. 

1821. — January 10. Expired in this town, the Hon. Joshua 
Thomas. He was born in 1751, and was descended from one 
of the most respectable families in the colony, his ancestor be- 
ing WiUiam Thomas^ of Mnrshjield, who was a particular friend 
of governor Winslow, and settled near him. 

Judge Thomas was the son of Dr. William Thomas, an em- 



1821] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 239 

inent physician in this town, who lived to an advanced age. 
The following sketch of our distinguished townsman is taken 
from the Collections of the Historical Society, vol. x. 2d series. 

* Mr, Thomas received his education at Harvard University, 
and was considered one of the first scholars in the large class 
of which he was a member. He was particularly distinguished 
for a flowing and elegant style of writing, and in subsequent 
periods of his life he gave repeated evidence of this happy talent. 
He was graduated in July, 1772. After passing a few months 
in teaching youth, (an employment in which, formerly, some of 
the best scholars in the state engaged for a short period, on 
leaving the university,) he gave his attention to theological 
studies, with a view to the clerical profession. But he was 
never employed in its public services. The political contro- 
versy with Great Britain, which was now becoming highly in- 
teresting and approaching to a crisis, seems to have engaged 
his chief attention, as it did that of other patriots of that event- 
ful period. He was adjutant of a regiment of newly organized 
mihtia, raised in Plymouth county in the autumn of 1774; and, 
at their request he delivered a public address on the political 
state of the country, which was received with great approba- 
tion and applause. 

' In April, 1775, soon after the battle of Lexington, Col. John 
Thomas, of Kingston, who had been an officer in 1758, raised 
a regiment, and marched, with others, to Roxbury. Here he 
acted for some months, as commander of the, several regiments 
ehcamped at that place, with the rank of General, while Gen. 
Ward was commander in chief of the Massachusetts troops, 
until the arrival of General Washington, in July following, who 
had received a commission to command the American forces of 
all the colonies. Mr. Thomas was aid to General Thomas at 
this period, and for this campaign; and his intelligence and ac- 
tivity rendered him highly useful to the General, and the divi- 
sion under his command. 

* In the same capacity he accompanied General Thomas, in 
the spring of 1776, to Ticonderoga and Crown Point, on Lake 
Champlain, who was entrusted with the chief command of the 
American troops in that quarter. After a few months service 
on that expedition, General Thomas died, and the command 
devolved on General Schuyler, of New York. Major Thomas 
then left the army and returned to his native town where he en- 
gaged in the study of the law, and was occasionally employed 
by government in various agencies for the public service; but 
did not again go into the field. 

^ In the year 1781, he was elected a representative from Ply- 



240 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1821 

mouth, and after serving the town in this capacity for several 
years, he was chosen one of the senators for that county, and, 
in 1792, was appointed judge of probate on the decease of the 
Hon. Joseph Gushing. This office he sustained until his death, 
a period of twenty-nine years; and its various duties were dis- 
charged with a correctness and integrity, with an impartiahty 
and patience never exceeded, perhaps by any one, and which 
secured to him the esteem and respect of the whole county. 
There was much amenity in his manners, and such a spirit of 
accommodation in the discharge of his official duties, as well as 
in the private circle, that air who associated with him, either for 
public business or social converse, were pleased and delighted. 
His memory was uncommonly retentive, and he was full of an- 
ecdotes calculated to illustrate the opinions and manners of men 
of former days, particularly of the patriots and statesmen of 
1775. He was fond of perusing the works of ethical and the- 
ological writers. His reading was very extensive on these 
subjects. He was well acquainted with the various systems of 
theology in the christian world; but gave his decided prefer- 
ence to that, which is now denominated unitarian and liberal. 
He went to the fountain of inspiration for his religious senti- 
ments; he admitted no other authority as decisive but the bible; 
and this, he believed, every one was bound to examine and in- 
terpret for himself; yet he approved, generally, of the writings 
of Price, and JVatsoiij of Maylieiv, Chauncij, and others of 
their catholic views. In his political character he ranked 
among the ardent friends of rational freedom, and was a true 
disciple of the Washington school. Though an enemy to ar- 
bitrary rulers, who forgot right and attempted to exercise ille- 
gal and unconstitutional power, he was a firm supporter of all 
legitimate authority, and a ready advocate of law and order. 
In the various critical periods of the commonwealth, during his 
active life, he united his effiDrts, with other good men, in vindi- 
cating correct constitutional principles, in opposition to popular 
excitements and party feelings. 

' His qualities, as a parent, neighbor and friend, were pe- 
culiarly happy and commendable. He was indulgent, mild, 
generous, disinterested. As a lawyer, also, he shared largely 
in the esteem and confidence of the people. He was too hon- 
orable to impose on the ignorant, or to exact even the usual 
fees for professional business of the poorer classes. He was 
many years president of the bar in Plymouth county; and the 
following vote, passed, unanimously, at the first court holden 
in that county, after his decease, fully shows the high estima- 
tion, which his brethren of the profession had of his talents 



1821 J HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 241 

and character. " The bar, taking into consideration the af- 
flicting dispensation of Providence, in removing by death, 
their highly respectable president, the Hon. Joshua Thomas, 
distinguished by his literary and legal acquirements, his moral 
and social virtues, and with a deep sense of the loss which the 
community in general have sustained by this melancholy event, 
do resolve, that they will, in token of their respect for his 
memory, wear crapt from this time to the end of the next term 
of the supreme judicial court for this county." 

'The honorable notice taken of our friend by Judge Putnam, 
at a session of the supreme judicial court in Plymouth, in 
May, 1821, at the first term thereof in the new court house, is 
worthy of preservation. " Alas! that our joy, on this interest- 
ing occasion, should be mixed with grief for the loss of that 
excellent and venerable man, who presided in your courts, and 
was so long the widow's friend, and father of the fatherless. 
This temple of justice is but one of the durable proofs of his 
influence, and of the never-failing confidence, which your peo- 
ple had in his integrity and judgment. His respected name 
will descend with distinguished honor to posterity ; but the 
benignity of his countenance and manners can be properly es- 
timated only by those, who had the happiness to know him. 
If he were here to-day, he would rejoice with you, because he 
would have believed that this well-timed liberality will be pro- 
ductive of lasting honor and benefit to the country, as well as 
to the state. He was fully impressed with that veneration for 
the laws and for the magistracy, which will ever be associated 
with these walls." 

* When a Bible Society was formed in the counties of Ply- 
mouth and Norfolk, in 1814, he was chosen president, and so 
continued to the time of his death. He was also president of 
the Pilgrim Society, and his death is deeply lamented by all its 
members. The regrets of the Historical Society are mingled 
with those of others, with whom he was associated for useful 
and patriotic purposes; and they improve the earliest opportu- 
nity to record this sketch of his character and services from a 
respectful regard for his memory, and as an incitement to 
others to honorable exertion for the good of the public and of 
posterity.' 

Judge Thomas married Isabella Stevenson; and their de- 
scendants were Jolm Boies, William, and Joshua Barker. 

The town purchased of the court of sessions of the county, 
the old court house, for the sum of ^2,000, to be appropriated 
as a Town House. 

April. — The town voted that the court of sessions of tha 
21 



242 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1822-24 

county may make any walks or improvement on the town's 
land in front of the new court house, or in any way ornament 
the same with trees or posts, &c., leaving a sufficient road 
open on each side; but no building whatever to be erected on 
the land. 

May 29. — The town voted to instruct their representative in 
general court to use every reasonable effort for better regulat- 
ing and diminishing the sale and use of spirituous liquors, and 
for preventing pauperism. 

Voted, also, that the selectmen be requested to address the 
selectmen of the several towns in the county, furnishing them 
with a copy of the above vote, and request their co-operation 
therewith; either on their own responsibility, or by laying the 
subject before their several towns respectively. 

1822. — The town voted to petition the legislature to pass a 
law prohibiting fires in the woods by coal-pits in Plymouth, 
Sandwich, Carver, Wareham and Kingston. 

Mr. Ichabod Shaw died this year, aged eighty-seven. He 
was descended from John Shaw, of an ancient and respectable 
family, who was among our first settlers, and located himself 
in Middleborou^h. He was an ingenious and industrious ar- 
list, possessing a sagacious mind, and was held in regard for 
his friendly and social qualities. He was strongly attached to 
the names of the pilgrim fathers, and was himself an exempli- 
fier of their simple manners and virtues. He married a daugh- 
ter of deacon John Atwood of this town, and was the parent of 
five sons and seven daughters. 

1823. — December 22. This day brings us to the 203d year 
since the landing of the pilgrims in this place. The semi- 
annual meeting of the Pilgrim Society was held, agreeably to 
the provision of their constitution. The interesting associations 
and pleasing recollections of the occasion were awakened and 
indulged, but the appropriate public performances were dis- 
pensed with. 

1824. — January 26. At a meeting of the inhabitants of the 
town, it was voted to petition congress for aid in repairing the 
beach. The petition expresses grateful acknowledgements for 
the appropriations heretofore made, for surveying and securing 
the harbor of Plymouth; after which it proceeds to represent, 
* that since the landing of ooir ancestors in 1620, this beach 
has been gradually wasting. From the year 1784 to the pre- 
sent time, repairs have been necessary for its preservation; and 
since the year 1806, the sum of j§40,000 has been expended in 
repairing it. This sum has been raised by grants from this 
state, by contributions of individuals, and by taxes assessed on 



1824] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 243 

your memorialists. The repairs thus made, have hitherto 
warranted the belief, that with our means, though small, we 
should be able to preserve it without further aid from the pub- 
lic; such, however, has been the destruction, by the late vio- 
lent storms, of the northern extremity of the beach, heretofore 
considered the most permanent, as well as the most important, 
and where repairs have not been considered requisite, that 
your memorialists are satisfied it is wholly beyond their means 
to make the repairs necessary to preserve it. 

' Your memorialists forbear to describe the distress that the 
destruction of this beach will bring upon the inhabitants of the 
ports of Plymouth and Kingston, in the loss of their property 
and employments; nor would they particularly remind you of 
the hopeless situation in which our numerous class of fisher- 
men would thereby be placed, who, from their youth, have had 
no other employment than in the fisheries; but they would most 
respectfully place the merits of their appeal on the importance 
of this harbor to the commerce, navigation and revenue of the 
country. 

* There are now, belonging to the ports of Plymouth and 
Kingston, two ships, fourteen brigs, sixty-five schooners, and 
fifteen sloops, measuring 8,228 tons, which vessels are em- 
ployed partly in foreign trade, partly in the coasting trade, and 
partly in the whale, cod, and mackerel fisheries. 

^ The amount of duties secured on imports in the district of 
Plymouth within the last three years, is $65,574 67, four-fifths 
of which amount were secured on importations at this port. 
This harbor is often frequented by vessels, when by adverse 
winds they are driven from their ports of destination north of 
this district; and, during the inclement seasons of the year, 
vessels are often saved from shipwreck by entering it. It is 
also of great national importance in time of war. It is the 
only harbor, south of Boston, in the Massachusetts Bay, em- 
bracing a sea coast of more than one hundred and fifty miles, 
in which vessels can then anchor in safety from the enemy. 
During the wars in which this country has been engaged, a 
large amount of property has been saved to individuals, and of 
revenue to the government, which, without this safe retreat, 
would have been lost. During the last war, many vessels were 
thus saved. The duties arising on the cargoes of two vessels 
amounted to §154,836 21, which, without this harbor, would 
have inevitably fallen into the hands of the enemy. From 
March, 1813, to May, 1814, was perhaps the most gloomy pe- 
riod of the war. The ships of the enemy were almost con- 
stantly cruising in the Massachusetts Bay. Yet, during this 



244 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1824 

short and perilous period, the duties secured at this port on the 
cargoes of vessels, that escaped the ships of* the enemy and 
found safety in this- harbor, amounted to the sum of $20,318 32. 
By the public surveys it also appears, that ships of the line can 
anchor with safety in this harbor, which may be considered as 
increasing the interest the public have in its preservation. 

' Your memoriahsts, having thus briefly stated the import- 
ance of this harbor to themselves and the public, and their ina- 
bility to make the repairs on the beach which are necessary to 
its preservation, do pray your honorable body to take the sub- 
ject into consideration, and to grant them such aid in repairing 
it, as to your wisdom may appear proper." Subsequent to this 
memorial, Congress made grants amounting to ^43,566, for the 
repairs. See under head Beach. 

Monumental Edifice. September 1. — The funds of the Pil- 
grim Society being thought sufficient to warrant the trustees 
in commencing the building of a monumental edifice, the cor- 
ner-stone was this day laid, with appropriate solemnities. This 
edifice is to be seventy by forty feet, with walls of unwrought, 
split granite ; the height from the top of the foundation to the 
eave cornice, being about thirty-three feet, forms two stories. 
The lower room is to be about ten feet in the clear of the ceil- 
ing; and the upper to the impost moulding about twenty feet, 
to which being added the curve of the ceiling, is about twenty- 
three feet. The present contract extends no farther than to 
enclose the main building. It is intended, as soon as the state 
of the funds will justify, to form the front by an addition of 
about twenty feet, with a double tier of steps, having entrance 
to the upper room, and by descent to the lower. The front 
will be finished with a Doric portico on four columns, of about 
twenty feet in height, the base of which will be from three to 
four feet above the level of the street. The situation presents 
a full view of the outer harbor. 

The Pilgrim Society, under the escort of the Standish 
Guards, proceeded to the meeting-house, where intercession 
was made by the Rev. Mr. Kendall, select passages of scrip- 
ture were read by Rev. Mr. Willis, of Kingston, and an ad- 
dress on the character and virtues of our fathers was delivered 
by Alden Bradford, Esq., reaching the hearts of his hearers as 
it came warm from his own. The solemnities of the church 
were closed by singing a hymn in the tune of Old Hundred, 
after the ancient manner, line by line. The society, under the 
same escort, and preceded by the children of the several 
schools, then proceeded to the site of the proposed building, laid 
the corner-stone, when the venerable President^ John Watson, 



1824] HIStOftt OF* PLYMOUTH. 245 

Esq., described some of the highly valued privileges of our de- 
scent. He expressed his gratitude that his life had been spared 
to witness these solemnities ; and, after the filial zeal of the 
present generation shall be attested, in the completion of this 
monument ' to perpetuate the virtues of the pilgrims,' he would 
say, like the patriarch of old, JVow let thy sertant depart in 
peace. The Rev. Dr. Allyne expressed our sense of depend- 
ence on the Almighty architect for the success of this, and 
all our labors, and supplicated a divine blessing. Thus in good 
earnest have we laid the foundation of ' a monument to per- 
petuate the memory of the virtues, the enterprise, and un- 
paralleled sufferings of the men who first settled in this ancient 
town,' where for ages their descendants may repair and trace 
their feeble beginnings, and contemplate the astonishing re* 
suits, that a beneficent Deity has annexed to the resolute, un- 
wearied, conscientious performance of the duties of piety and 
benevolence. 

The following articles were deposited in an excavation made 
in the stone for that purpose. 

Deposits. — Sermon delivered at Plymouth by Robert Cush-' 
man, December 12th, 1621. 

First Newspaper printed in the Old Colony, by Nathaniel 
Coverly, at Plymouth, in 1786. 

Coins of the United States, and of Massachusetts. 

Odes composed for the Anniversary. 

Constitution of the Pilgrim Society, and the names of its 
Members. 

Daniel Webster's Century Oration for 1820. 

Massachusetts Register. 

Old Colony Memorial began in May, 1822, by Allen Dan- 
forth. 

Columbian Centinel, by Benjamin Russell, containing an 
account of the entry of General Lafayette into the city of 
Boston. 

PT,ate. — ' In grateful memory of our ancestors who exiled 
themselves from their native country, for the sake of religion, 
and here successfully laid the foundation of Freedom and Em- 
pire, December xxii. A. D. MDCXX. their descendants, the 
Pilgrim Society, have raised this edifice, August xxxi. A. D. 
MDCCCXXIV. 

A. Parris, Architect. 

J. & A. S. Taylor, Builders. 

H. Morse, Sc' 

In the summer of the present year, a general joy was dif- 
fused through the United States by the arrival on our shores 
21* 



246 MfSTORY CF PLYMOUTH. [1824 

of that illustrious friend of our country General Lafayette. 
All ranks of people and all public bodies vied in homage and 
respect to this great personage. 

The morning after the arrival of General Lafayette in Bos- 
ton, Dr. Thacher called on him, with the subjoined letter from 
the selectmen of Plymouth, in behalf of the citizens of the 
town. 

' Plymouth, Mass. August 2isf, 1824. 

' General Lafayette, 

'Sir : the inhabitants of this town cordially unite with their 
fellow-citizens, in bidding you a sincere welcome to the United 
States. Living on the spot where their ancestors, the founders 
of the American republic, first landed and settled, the inhabit- 
ants cherish a deep interest for those who have aided the cause 
for which they emigrated to these shores; which cause you, 
with other distinguished friends of freedom, successfully sup- 
ported through the perilous period of the revolutionary war. — 
The privations you suffered, and the perils and hardships you 
encountered during that interesting struggle, in leaving your 
home and country, and exposing your life to the dangers of the 
American camp for the freedom and independence of the 
States, justly entitle you to the lasting gratitude of the Ameri- 
can people; and as long as they are worthy of the rich and in- 
valuable blessing they now enjoy, they cannot fail of looking 
to you as their unwavering benefactor. 

' Should it be convenient to you before leaving the United 
States, to visit this place, the inhabitants will be highly grati- 
fied in having the pleasure of waiting on you, and expressiag 
to you personally, assurances of their gratitude and esteem. 
Li behalf of the inhabitants and by order of the selectmen of 
Plymouth. ' Z. Sampson, Chairman.' 

Answer. 
'Sir : Nothing could afford me a greater satisfaction than to 
have the honor to pay my respects to the citizens of Plymouth; 
nor will I leave the shores of America before I have enjoyed 
this heartfelt gratification. But my present first visit to this 
part of the Union is shortened by previous engagements, and 
the obligation to go towards the seat of government at Wash- 
ington city. I anticipate the time when it will be in my power, 
personally, to present the citizens of Plymouth with my grate- 
ful and affectionate acknowledgments for their kindness to me. 
Be pleased to accept the tribute of those sentiments, and to 
believe me, with much personal regard, your obedient servant, 

^Lafayette.* 



1824] HISTOHY OP PLYMOUTH. 247 

Second letter from Gen. Lafayette to the Selectmen. 

* Washington, February 5, 1825. 
' Sir: On the point of beginning a long journey through the 
Southern and Western States, I anticipate the time of next 
summer, when I will return to the Northern and Eastern parts 
of the Union. Happy I will be if I can present the people of 
Plymouth with my respectful thanks, and pay a tribute of rev- 
erence to the first spot where persecuted patriots did seek an 
asylum which they now offer to all the citizens of European 
despotism and aiistocracy. In the mean while I beg you, Sir, 
accept, and to offer to your fellow-citizens, the expressions of 
my deep regard and affectionate respect. 

Lafayette. 

^ Zah. Samp&en, Esq.^ 

In town meeting. — ' Whereas Gren. Lafayette has declared 
his intention of visiting this town the ensuing summer, it be- 
comes peculiarly incumbent on its citizens, living as we do, in 
the very birth-place of liberty, to prepare due honors for the 
man, whose eventful life has been devoted to its cause, and 
whom ten millions of free Americans with one consent have 
delighted to honor, the illustrious guest of the nation. 

Therefore, votcd^ to appoint a committee of ten, to prepare 
for his reception in a manner best calculated to show to him and 
the public our grateful sentiments on this joyous occasion. — 
Voted, that the selectmen be authorized to draw on the treasu- 
ry for a sum sufficient to cancel the expenses thence accruing.' 
A committee of ten persons was accordingly appointed, and prop- 
er arrangements were made for his reception, but for want of 
time he was obliged to dispense with his visit. This disap- 
pointment was greatly regretted. Lafayette would have been 
received here with emotions of cordial affection and profound 
respect, as it cannot be doubted that he cherished an interest 
in the consecrated asylum of those apostles of^ civil and reli- 
gious freedom, whom we glory to style our progenitors, and who 
were animated by those holy principles so congenial to his own 
heart. How gratifying the occasion, could we have seen this 
great man step on the Rock of owr fathers; the sacred monu- 
ment on which were imprinted the footsteps of the anxious pil- 
grims, panting for a sanctuary for the deposite of their heavenly 
trust, the Charter of Liberty! The work which commenced in 
1620, nurtured by the smiles of a guardian Providence, was 
with his generous assistance consummated in 1781. The annals 
of our revolution and the ^qw survivors of that memorable pe- 
riod, bear ample testimony to the ardor and devotion which he 



248 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1824 

displayed, and the noble deeds he achieved under the banners 
of Washington; and milHons of freemen will ever cherish in 
their hearts the name of Lafayette. 

December. — On the 22d instant was celebrated the birthday 
of New England, the 204th anniversary, by the Pilgrim Soci- 
ety. The day was welcomed in a manner suited to the great- 
ness of the occasion, and the increasing interest which is dis- 
played in our early history. It was particularly gratifying to 
the inhabitants, that so many distinguished characters were 
disposed to resort hither, with feelings of enthusiasm, to * pay 
due honors to the urns of the pilgrim fathers of our race,' and 
to participate in the festivities which custom and propriety have 
sanctioned, as appropriate to this ever memorable anniversary. 
The immense crowd of visiters the preceding evening filled all 
our public houses, and the private mansions were thrown open, 
that all might be accomnrodated. The evening was pleasant, 
and lights were placed at the windows, whitih served to prevent 
accident, and had the effect of a general illumination. 

At the early dawn, demonstrations of gratitude and joy com- 
menced by the ringing of bells and discharge of cannon from 
the ancient ' Fort Hill,' and soon the streets were thronged with 
an assemblage of citizens and strangers, more numerous than 
usual on any former anniversary. There were some pecu- 
liarities in the celebration this year, by which public anticipa- 
tion had been highly excited. The Pilgrim Hall, recently 
erected to the memory of our fathers, the beautiful paintings of 
Col. Sargent, which adorned its wall, and the splendid reputa- 
tion of the orator, Professor Everett, combined to awaken a 
lively interest in all classes of people. Hence, the town was 
honored by visiters from every part of New England, many 
from New York, and several ladies and gentlemen of distinc- 
tion from foreign countries. At ten o'clock, the Pilgrim Soci- 
ety assembled at the Hall, where the noble images of our an- 
cestors on the, wall attracted universal attention. From the 
hall, a very respectable procession was escorted, by the Stand- 
ish Guards, to the meeting house, where a very devotional 
prayer was offered by Rev. Mr. Kendall. On no occasion, 
perhaps, have the pious effusions of the heart and humble pe- 
titions been uttered with greater eloquence or more powerful 
effect on an audience. Then followed a masterly discourse 
by Professor Everett, replete with instructive details of his- 
tory, of pious patriotism and glowing effusions of praise to- 
wards our fathers, for the unexampled intrepidity and fortitude 
with which they encountered their peculiar difficulties. This 
incomparable performance, with which all were delighted, and 



1824,5] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 249 

which added to the well earned fame of its author, has been 
published. The procession returned from the meeting house 
to the Hall, where an excellent dinner was provided, and en- 
livened with appropriate songs and toasts. The day closed 
with a splendid and fully attended ball. The admirable picture 
of the landing of the fathers, by Col. Sargent, was by its au- 
thor placed in the Pilgrim Hall at this celebration, that the eye 
as well as the ear and intellect might be gratified on this 
interesting occasion. A writer in the newspaper says, * We 
must do Sir. Sargent the justice to say, that he has not dis- 
graced the noble story. No, the grandeur of the matchless 
undertaking has not suffered in his hands. The whole group 
and back ground of this picture, indicate deep thought, suc- 
cessful study, and equal skill in the execution. And who of 
us, descendants of the intrepid association, can look at the 
picture without emotion ? It is a heart-moving representation 
of the patriarchs of our own blessed tribe, now spread and spread- 
ding throughout this vast land of promise. The story, as told 
by Mr. Sargent on the glowing canvass, is truly affecting, and 
the moral dignified. It is a striking picture of christian hero- 
ism, turning its back on regal and ecclesiastical folly and per- 
secution. The picture has a special reference to the greatest 
civil event in the records of the human race, and the story is 
well told and well painted.' 

1825 — March. The town voted to receive the new road at 
Eel river, passing by the cotton factory to the old Sandwich 
road, as a town road. 

July. — The anniversary of the American Independence was 
celebrated in this town in a manner exc£edingly gratifying to a 
large and respectable collection of citizens of this and other 
towns in the county. Salutes were fired from Watson's Hill, 
at sunrise, immediately after the services in the meeting-house, 
and at sunset. An oration was delivered by William Thomas, 
Esq. 

William Goodwin, Esq. died July seventeenth, 1825, aged 
sixty-nine years. He was son of a respectable merchant in 
this town. It was his misfortune to labor under great bodily 
infirmities during many years, but his mind was active and in- 
telligent. In the ofl[ices of assessor an4 selectman, he was ever 
found faithful, and was esteemed a man of public integrity and 
usefulness. He held the office of postmaster for several years, 
and was cashier of Plymouth Bank from its first establishment 
till his death. He married Lydia, the eldest daughter of Capt. 
Simeon Sampson, of this town, and they were parents of five 
sons and two daughters: — Simeon, who resides at Kentucky; 



250 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1826 

William, a respectable and intelligent merchant, died at Ha- 
vana, December l5th, 1821, aged 38 years; Isaac, a learned 
lawyer and antiquarian, died at Worcester, 1832; Frederick 
died at New Orleans, 1833; Hersey Bradford, an ordained 
minister at Concord, Massachusetts; Mary Ann married Thomas 
Russell; Jane. 

1826. — January 5. Died in this town Hon. William Davis. 
* This gentleman has been long and extensively known and es- 
teemed as a respectable merchant. To this line of life he was 
early devoted, and the few simple principles to which he ad- 
hered, industry, probity and perseverance, made his success- 
ful course an instructive example, and, united with many kin- 
dred virtues, rendered him a valued and endeared member of 
the community. He was cordially attached to his native town, 
and engaged with unwearied assiduity in the various municipal 
labors, to which he was called in early life, and which, for 
many successive years, were assigned to him. He occasion- 
ally represented the town in general court, and in the years 
1812 and 1813, was a member of the executive council. Po- 
litical distinction, however, was never an object of his pursuit, 
and to calls of this character he always yielded with reluctance. 
From the faithful and discreet discharge of his various duties, 
from the numerous em«ployments which his activity and energy 
produced or promoted, from his animating influence to en- 
courage exertion in others, and the habitual interest which he 
manifested in its successful issue, he was an important member 
of the circle in which he moved, and his death has left a void 
which may not be readily supplied, and has filled many hearts 
with sadness. His cheerful temper and social habits, and the 
facility with which his sympathies became accommodated to the 
situation and feelings of others, made his company and con- 
versation always acceptable to persons of every age and con- 
dition.' Mr. Davis was president of Plymouth Bank. He was, 
for about thirty years, a member of our board of selectmen, 
and was a zealous advocate of the welfare and prosperity of the 
various civil and religious institutions of his native town. He 
was, at his death, vice-president of the Pilgrim, Society, and 
ever manifested an ardent interest in its prosperity. 

Mr. Davis married Rebecca Morton, who still survives, and 
their surviving children are Nathaniel Morton, Thomas, and 
Betsey, who is now the widow of Alexander Bliss, Esq. Wil- 
liam, the oldest son, was cut off in the midst of his career of 
enterprise and usefulness, March, 1824, in the forty-first year 
of his age. 

February 1, — Died, John Watson, Esq., aged seventy-eight. 



1828] HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 251 

He graduated at Harvard College in 1766, and was one of the 
founders of the Old Colony Club in 1769, and the last surviv- 
ing member of that association of worthies. He was the first 
vice-president of the Pilgrim Society, and after the death of 
Judge Thomas, the president, was elected to fill that office, 
which he held till his death, Mr. Watson was the proprietor 
of Clark's Island, where he resided during about forty years 
of his Me. To that spot he always felt a peculiar attachment, 
as affording antiquarian associations, in which he delighted to 
indulge, and to recount to his family and friends. He left many 
sons and daughters, of respectable standing in life. 

July. — The fiftieth anniversary of our national independence 
was celebrated by the inhabitants of this town, in unison with 
a respectable assemblage of fellow citizens from other towns in 
the county. An oration was delivered by Charles H. Warren, 
Esq., of New Bedford. 

JVovember. — It having been discovered that considerable in- 
jury has been done to Plymouth beach by carrying off sand 
and sea-weed from the contiguous flats, and that, within a few 
years past, it has been the practice to take sand from said flats, 
for the purpose of manufacturing glass, the town petitioned the 
general court to pass a law prohibiting such trespasses in fu- 
ture. 

1828. — Hon. Zabdiel Sampson, Esq. expired in this town 
July 19th. He was a native of Plympton, but resided in Ply- 
mouth during the several last y^ars of his life. He was grad- 
uated at Brown University in 1803, and devoted himself to the 
study of the law, but was not long a pleader at the bar. In 
the year 1816, he was elected by this district a representative 
to Congress, and in 1820 was appointed collector of the cus- 
toms for the port of Plymouth, which he retained till his death. 
He was, for several years, chairman of the board of selectmen, 
in this town, and in the several offices which he sustained, he 
was found diligent and faithful, and in moral virtue was exem- 
plary. 

October 9th. — Died, Nathaniel Lothrop, M. D., aged ninety- 
one. ' Dr. Lothrop was of the fifth generation from his re- 
spectable ancestor, John Lothrop. He graduated at Harvard 
University, at the head of tbe class of 1756; and, before his 
decease, was the only surviving graduate, except the venerable 
Dr. Holyoke, of Salem, of the long list of Alumni of his Alma 
Mater, included within the years 1740 and 1759. For a con- 
siderable time, he stood far in advance, in point of age, of any 
other person in this place. He survived all the companions 
and associates of his early days in his native town, outlived 



252 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1829 

the dearest of his domestic comforts, which had been his joy 
and delight, and was suffered to continue until even the desire 
of life in respect to himself had fled. A sacred regard to the 
dying request of the venerable deceased forbids us to enlarge; 
we will only add, while we cherish with respect and veneration 
the remembrance of his virtues, that like an ancient patri- 
arch, he died in a good old age, an old man, and full of years, 
and was gathered to his fathers ' It should be gratefully no- 
ticed and remembered that Dr. Lothrop gave a legacy of $500 
to the Pilgrim Society, toward completing the edifice. 

The 208th anniversary of the landing of the pilgrims was 
noticed by a private celebration on the 22d of December, A 
number of gentlemen of the town dined at the hotel, at which 
Major Joseph Thomas presided; and, besides * the feast of 
shells,' the company enjoyed the anecdote, the song, and the 
toast, as reminiscences of olden times. 

This anniversary was also celebrated by religious services in 
the meeting-hoHse of the third parish, where the Rev. Lyman 
Beecher, D. D,, of Boston, delivered a sermon, which attract- 
ed much attention, as coming from * a strong and vigorous 
mind, and abounding with practical and liberal remarks,' 

1829. — July lOth. Died, suddenly, Samuel Davis, Esq., 
aged 64. Mr. Davis was truly an antiquarian; and few men 
within our social circle, possessed a greater fund of correct in- 
formation relative to the character and circumstances of our 
primitive fathers. He was, says the writer of an obituary no- 
tice, ' the man to whom the inquisitive stranger was, by all of 
us, promptly referred. There was an accuracy and precision 
in the habit of his mind, that made all his minute and curious 
information perfectly to be relied on. He was what the world 
would call a man of leisure; but this leisure was no ignoble 
escape from thought; but was usually employed, under the di- 
rection of a cultivated taste, amid scenery and resources ex- 
actly adapted to its full gratification. He loved the characters 
of the pilgrims. He loved to trace out their original allot- 
ments, their first rude dwellings. He knew their sons and 
daughters, their intermarriages, their changes of abode, the 
living branches and the scions, that became new stocks in the 
most distant states.* Of all these things he made copious 

* On one of the days of our anniversary, the Rev. Dr. Pierce 
having been for some time in conversation with Mr. Davis, a num- 
ber of clerorymen entered the room ; the Dr. said, ' Gentlemen, this 
is Mr. Davis, who can tell us all where we came from.' Mr. D. 
promptly replied, 'Gentlemen, this is Dr. Pierce, who can tell us all 
where we are going to.' 



1830] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 253 

memoranda. It is easy to infer the moral traits of an intel- 
lectual man, who, fond of history and biography, yet turned 
with disgust from the Caesars, the Charleses, and Napoleons, 
and for thirty years persevered with delight in l-earning the 
minutest particulars of men like the pilgrims. The reader 
would be sure that he had, in the proper use of the word, sim- 
plicity of mind ; that he was unostentatious, and meek, and 
pure, and a lover of good men of every age and clime. If he 
had peculiarities, they did not arise out of disordered affections, 
or from bitter ingredients in the composition of his mind ; but 
were the natural growth of a life of celibacy, and seclusion of 
a mind less forcibly acted upon than most others, by the events 
and prevalent passions of the times he lived in.' 

The manner of his death was remarkable. Having walked 
out in the evening, he retired to his chcimber about t«n o'clock, 
his usual hour, and made an entry in his diary, of the state of 
the weather. At breakfast time the next morning he was found 
a corpse, his arms folded on his breast without any indication 
that departing life had occasioned the least struggle, so tranquii 
was the end of his peaceful life. 

* From life on earth our pensive friend retires, 
His dust commingling with the pilgrim sires ; 
In tlioiiofhtful walks th^ir every path he traced, 
Their toils, their tombs his faithful page embraced^ 
Peaceful and pure and innocent as they, 
With them to rise to everlasting day.'' 

1830. — Died in this town, June 4th, Hon. Beza Hayward, 
Esq., aged 78 years. He was a native of Bridgewater, and 
graduated at Harvard College in 1772, and devoted himself to 
the study of theology. When he commenced the clerical pro- 
fession, the civil affairs of our country were involved in the 
greatest confusion by the opposition to the oppressive measures 
of parliament, and there was no encouragement for young cler- 
gymen. Being compelled to relinquish his profession, he be- 
came a teacher of a school for the higher branches of educa- 
tion. In this employment he continued for several years, when 
he was chosen to represent his native town in the legislature, 
and subsequently was elected into the senate, and afterwards a 
member of the council board. Patriotism, public virtue and 
love of order were eminent traits in his character. He pos- 
sessed a peculiar tact for mathematical calculations, and was 
much relied on for accuracy of results, when for many months 
he was employed on committees of valuation in the legislature. 
In the year 1808 he was appointed register of probate for the 
county of Plymouth, which office he sustained till his deatli, 
22 



254 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1831 

and acquitted himself honorably of its duties. In the domestic 
circle, and as a magistrate he was respected for probity, strict 
integrity and impartial justice. Under bereavement the virtues 
of meekness, humility and pious resignation were graciously 
exemplified in his demeanor. His descendants are John and 
Susan. 

July 6th. — The wife of Captain William Holmes was killed 
by lightning, while in her house; no other person was injured, 
but the house was greatly shattered. 

December. — We have again been called to commemorate the 
day so greatly endeared to the hearts of the descendants of the 
pilgrim fathers. 

At a meeting of the Pilgrim Society, a communication was 
read from Hon. Judge Davis, announcing a donation of fifty 
copies of his edition of New England's Memorial. 

The oration was delivered by the Honorable William Sulli- 
van, which commanded deep and silent attention. It has been 
published with copious notes annexed, and adds honor to Sulli- 
van, so well known in history, in literature and in science. Af- 
ter the oration, the closing hymn ^ Hail Pilgrim Fathers of our 
race,' was read line by line and sung to the tune of Old Hun- 
dred. 

The assembly in procession returned to the Pilgrim Hall, 
where upwards of 200 persons sat down to dinner. Alden 
Bradford, Esq., president of the Pilgrim Society, was seated in 
the arm chair of English oak, which came over with the first 
settlers, and is reputed to have been Governor Carver's. The 
hall was decorated with ever-greens in a tasteful manner. 

1831. — Anniversary Commemoration. The first parish in 
Plymouth having voted that they will annually solemnize, by re- 
ligious services, the anniversary of the landing of our forefathers, 
except when the Pilgrim Society shall take the celebration on 
themselves,* arrangements were accordingly made for the oc- 
casion, and a numerous and highly respectable assembly con- 
vened on the 22d of December, in the new church of the first 
parish for divine service. The Rev. Mr. Cole, of Kingston, 
and Rev. Mr. Goodwin, of Concord, oflfered our thanksgivings 
and supplications in a spirit and manner worthy the interesting 
occasion. The Rev. Mr. Brazer, of Salem, delivered a dis- 
course peculiarly appropriate, from Psalms xxx. 8, 9. It was 
fraught with interesting intelligence and filial aflfection. How 
can we best honor the fathers, and in what way shall we best 
cherish their memory ? This inquiry was awakening to the 

* This vote has since been repealed by the parish. 



1832] HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. ^55 

feelings of the audience, and the discussions of the eloquent 
speaker delighted the understandings of those who love to cher- 
ish the puritan character. This anniversary was at the same 
time commemorated in the meeting house of the third parish in 
this town. The Rev. Dr. John Codman, of Dorchester, was 
invited to perform the solemnities on the occasion. This ser- 
mon has been published, and is honorable to the author, inter- 
esting to the antiquarian, and to the admirers of the puritans. 
A sermon was preached also before the Robinson church and 
society, by the Rev. Mr. Cobb, of Taunton. 

1832. — ^^Centennial Anniversary of the birth-day of Wash- 
ington. February. — The centennial birth-day of Washington, 
so peculiarly interesting to the whole population of the United 
'States was celebrated on the 22d instant, by the young men ia 
this town, with commendable ardor and reverence. An oration 
was delivered by Hon, Solomon Lincoln, which was received 
with much applause by a crowded audience. 

There is a signal felicity in discovering proofs of patriotism 
and public virtue in those who are soon to be called to the pla- 
ces of such of the present generation as are rapidly passing 
from the stage of life and usefulness. Much of the welfare and 
prosperity of our great republic, depends on the purity of prin- 
ciple and sentiment, maintained by the rising generation: on 
them devolve not only the honor and character of our nation, 
but the prosperity and happiness af generations to come. For 
lessons of instructions, we trust they will look to the eventful 
lives, and the examples of those virtuous men who have finish- 
ed their earthly career, and are gathered to their fathers. May 
our young men be directed to discern the true interest of their 
country, and be cordially united in its pursuit, and may they, 
like their illustrious progenitors, be renowned for their love of 
the church, and for a pious attachment to the genuine princi- 
ples of freedom and the rights of man; cherishing with pious 
ardor that excellent constitution given them by their renowned 
sires, nor hastily fritter away its principles with the vain expec- 
tation of improvement. 

The 212th anniversary of the landing of our forefathers was 
celebrated by religious services by the first parish in town on 
Saturday, the 22d day of December. The discourse delivered 
by Rev. Convers Francis, of Watertown, from John iv. 38, — 
* Other men have labored, and ye have entered into their 
labors." ' It was marked by the fluency of thought and ex- 
pression, the felicity of classical allusion, and the philosophical' 
discriminations, which distinguish all the productions of this 
gentleman, and we Hsteoed with renewed interest ta the oft told 



256 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. [1833, 4 

story of the sufferings and achievements of the eminent men, 
who on the rock of Plymouth, laid the foundation of our pre- 
sent infstituiions, and breathed into them the spirit of civil and 
religious liberty.'* The Rev. Mr. Francis complied with the 
request of the parish committee, and granted a copy of his dis- 
course for publication. 

The discourse delivered in the third parish by the Rev. Jona- 
than Bigelow of Rochester, is spoken of as being dignified and 
appropriate. 

1833. — December 22d. The anniversary familiarly and ap- 
propriately called among us ^'Forefather's day/^ occurred this 
year on the Sabbath. The Rev. Mr. Barrrett of Boston, 
preached in the meeting-house of the first parish in this town. 
His morning sermon was from Zechariah i. 5. 6. 

'Your fathers, where are they? But my words and my stat- 
utes did they not take hold of your fathers? ' 

1834. — The anniversary of the landing of our forefathers 
was this year celebrated by the Pilgrim Society, in a manner 
that brought to recollection the most interesting events and in- 
cidents pertaining to our puritan worthies in their ' days of 
small things.' In the morning the peels from the bells of the 
several churches and the cannon from the hill were the signals 
for the various services. At ten o'clock, the society assembled 
at Pilgrim Hall, which is now finished, comformably to the 
original design, by erecting a handsome Doric portico in front 
©f the edifice. 

From that place was marshalled a respectable and numerous 
procession which proceeded to the church of the first parish, 
which was at once filled in every part. The services in the 
church were the singing of an Ode "Sons of renowned Sires," 
a Prayer by Rev. Dr. Kendall, and a discourse. " The dis- 
course was delivered by Rev. George W. Blagden of Boston, 
and was remarkable as well for its appropriateness as an anni- 
versary address as for the skill with which its topics were se- 
lected and discussed. This union of aptness and skill, set oflf 
as they were by the excellent manner and voice of the orator, 
charmed the whole audience, so that there was but one pervad- 
ing sentiment of satisfaction and delight." We are gratified 
that this performance is now before the public. The other 
hymns sung were the hymn by Bryant ^'Wildwastbe day," 
and " Hail Pilgrim Fathers of our race," which after the man- 
ner of the Pilgrims was read line by line and sung to the tune 
of '^ Old Hundred." The services being closed, the proces- 
sion returned to Pilgrim Hall, where was prepared an enter- 
tainment. Among our respected guests we were gratified with 



1834] HrSTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 257 

the presence of Lt.Governor Armstrong, who appeared to take 
a deep interest in every thing that relates to the puritans. 

A splendid ball closed the celebration of the 214th anniver- 
sary of our fore-fathers. 

Colonel SargenVs Picture — It is with peculiar satisfaction that 
we record in this place the very valuable donation by Henry 
Sargent, Esq. of Boston, to the Pilgrim Society, of his mag- 
nificent painting, representing our forefathers on their first land- 
ing from the Mayflower. It has long been a desideratum, that 
the walls of our Pilgrim Hall should be adorned with this pic- 
ture, but for the want of fiinds it could not be procured, the 
price being ^3,00G. That gentleman has now, with a noble 
generosity, presented the picture to the Society, and funds have 
been raised by subscription for the purpose of procuring a rich 
and costly frame and paying some contingent expenses. We 
shall now enjoy the satisfaction of contemplating tliis superb 
representation of the patriarchs, the founders of our nation on- 
their first arriving on our shores. The Pilgrim Hall is the 
most appropriate receptacle, and is now suitably prepared to 
receive it, and the author has, by the grandeur of his concep- 
tions and skill, rendered the painting peculiarly appropriate to 
the place, and acquired to himself both honor and applause^. 
The frame is gilt, and measures 13 by 16 feet. In page 244 of 
this volume will be found some notice of this picture by another 
hand when formerly exhibited. In a letter to the author from 
the venerable John Trumbull, not long since, he observes: "It 
gives me great pleasure to learn that Col. Sargent has present- 
ed to the Pilgrim Society at Plymouth, his fine picture of the 
landing of our fathers. The painting has great merit and is 
perfectly appropriate to your Hall. I congratulate you and the 
Society, on having so vaiuable a gift." 

The following persons are represented in the several groups 
attired in the costume of their day. 

1. Governor Carver and his wife and children; 

2. Governor Bradford; 

3. Governor Winslow; 

4. Wife of Governor Winslow; 

5. Mr. William Brewster, the presiding Elder; 

6. Captain Miles Standish;: 

7. Mr. William White, and his child Peregrine; 

8. Mr. Isaac Allerton and his wife;; 

9. Mr. John Alden; 

10. Mr. John Turner; 

11. Mr. Stephen Hopkins, his wife and childrea' 

12. Mr. Richard Warren; 

2;2* 



258 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH^ [1834 

13. Mr. Edward Tilley; 
14.- Mr. Samuel Fuller; 

15. Wife of Captain Standish; 

16. Samoset, an Indian Sagamore or Lord; 

17. Mr. John Howland, of Gov. Carver's family. (He mar- 
ried Gov. Carver's daughter.) 

Among; the Antiquities in the Cabinet of the PiJgrim Society 
are the following: 

An armed antique chair apparently made for some public use, 
and reputed to have belonged to Governor Carver. 

The identical sword blade wged by Miles Standish, the hilt 
being of more modern date, presented by William T. Wil- 
liams, Esq. 

A pewter dish belonging to Miles Standish, presented by 
Joseph Head, Esq. 

An iron pot belonging to Miles Standish, presented by John 
Watson, Esq. 

The identical; cap worn by King Philip. It is helmet shaped, 
curiously wrought in the manner of net work, and interwoven 
"with red bird's feathers, presented by Mr. Abiathar Wilber. 

A piece of Governor E, Winslow's chest, presented by Mr. 
John Churchill, 

Sundry axes, hatchets, tomahawks, arrow-heads, &lc. of stone 
wrought by the natives* 



PART III. 

ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY 

OF PLYMOUTB. 



'Just men they were, and all their study bene 

To worship God aright, and know his works 

Not hid ; nor those things last, which might preserve* 

Freedom and peace to man.' 

The; first Church in New England, founded at Plymouth in 
1620, was a part of the church under the pastoral care of the 
celebrated John Robinson. '^ In the fall of 1608, the churches 
under Mr.. Clifton and Mr. John Robinson, in the North of 
England, being extremely harrassed, some east into prison^ some 
beset in their houses, some forced to leave their families, they 
begin to fly over to Holland with their Rev. Pastor, Mr. Clifton, 
for purity of worship and liberty of conscience." Ini conse- 
quence of cruel persecution in their native country for their 
noRrconformity, Mr. Robinson and his band of christian breth- 
ren, exiled, themselves to Leyden, in 1610, where they resided 
almost eleven years. Their situation among the Dutch did not 
afford them the advantages and facilities which were desirable. 
Their resources for support were greatly deficient, the employ- 
ments for their sons entering on the stage of life were altogeth- 
er inelig:ible, and there were reasons tx) apprehend that by inter- 
marriages with the Dutch they would lose the English character, 
for which th€y still retained a natural attachment. Dissatisfied,, 
therefore, with their situation as a permanent residence, after 
the most matnre deliberation they resolved to emigrate too the 
unexplored shores of America, trusting in Divine Providence 
for protection. (See page 13th.) Their agents, employed to 
negotiate in England- for a territory for settlement, described, 
in touching language, their feelings, and the reasons which in- 
duced them to emigrate; that they were well weaned from the 



260 / HISTORY aP PLYMOUTH. [1620 

delicate milk of their mother country, and inured to the difficul- 
ties of a strange land; that they were knit toother in a strict 
and sacred bond, by which they held themselves bound to take 
care of the good of each othei;, and of the whole ; no small 
things would discourage them, or make them wish to return 
home. They had actjuired habits of frugality, industry, and 
self-denial, and were united in a solemn covenant, by which 
they were bound to seek the welfare of the whole company, and 
of every individual person. The letters also contained an ex- 
position of their religious creed, as agreeing with the French 
'reformed churches in faith and discipline, and differing only in 
some incidental points. But they abjured all right of human 
invention, or interference in religious matters, not building their 
kopes on ceremonial observances and on systems of worship. 
They would have the church thoroughly reformed; that is, 
purged from all those inventions which have been brought into 
it since the age of the apostles, and reduced entirely to scrip- 
ture purity. They were actuated by a natural and pious desire 
of perpetuating a church, which they believed to be constituted 
after the simple and pure model of the primitive church, of 
Christ; and a commendable zeal to propagate the gospel in the 
region of the new world. 



* Like Israelis host to exile driven-, 
Across the flood the Pilgrims fled y 

Their hands bore up the ark of Heaven, 
And Heaven their trusting footsteps led,. 

Till on these savage shores they trod, 

And won. the wilderness for God.'''— Pierpont. 



We learn by Dr. Belknap, that the particular sentiments, as 
to ecclesiastical government, which were held by the church 
over which Mr. Robinson was pastor, and which had a peculiar 
iofhience upoa the conduct and character of the settlers of 
Plymouth, have been comprised under the following heads: 

1. That no church ought to consist of more members than 
can conveniently meet together for worship and discipline. 

2. That every church of Christ is to consist only of such as 
appear to believe in and obey him. 

3v That any competent number of such have a right, when 
conscience obliges them, to form themselves into a distinct 
church. 

4. That this incorporation is,, by some contract or covenant, 
expressed or implied. 



1620] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY 261 

5. That being thus incorporated, they have a right to choose 
their own officers. 

6. Tliai these officers are pastors, or teaching elders, ruling 
elders, and deacons. 

7. That elders, being chosen and ordained, have a power to 
rule the church, but by consent of the brethren. 

8. That all elders and all churches are equal in respect of 
powers and privileges. 

9. With respect to ordinances, they held, that baptism is to 
be administered to visible believers and their infant children, but 
they admitted only the children of communicants to baptism. 
That the Lord's supper is to be received sitting at the table, 
(whilst they were in Holland they received it every Lord's day.) 
That ecclesiastical censures were wholly spiritual, and not to 
be accompanied with temporal penalties. 

10. They admitted no holidays but the christian Sabbath, 
though they had occasional days of fasting and thanksgiving; 
and, finally, they renounced all right of human invention and 
interference in religious matters. 

Having sold their estates in Holland, and put the proceeds 
into a common fund, they began to make preparations for their 
departure ; but so entirely were their minds devoted to religious 
contemplation and pious exercises, that no secular concerns could 
be transacted without first offering their aspirations to Heaven 
for guidance. The aid of the Lord was invoked with sincerity 
and in faith in all their worldly concerns. Greatly, indeed, 
were they strengthened and encouraged by the glorious exam- 
ple and fervent prayers of the venerated pastor. 

In the early part of the year 1620, Robinson delivered a dis- 
course, the object of which was, to strengthen and confirm the 
resolution of those who were about to go to America. They 
had ascertained that a majority of the congregation were in- 
clined to emigrate, but all who had come to that determination 
could not immediately prepare themselves for the voyage; those 
■who remained, (being the majority,) required of Robinson that 
he should stay with them, and proposed that Brewster, the rul- 
ing elder, should go with the minority; and such was the final 
arrangement. The minority were to be an absolute church of 
themselves, as those who should stay, with the proviso, that as 
any should go over or return, they should be reputed as mem- 
bers, without further dismission or testimonial. The others in- 
tended to follow as soon as circumstances w^ould permit. 

In July, of the same year, they kept another solemn day of 
prayer, and Mr. Robinson again preached to them, selecting 
for his text the very appropriate words in Ezra, chap. viii. verse 



262 ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. [1620 

21 : 'I proclaimed a fast at the river Ahava, that we might af- 
flict ourselves before God, to seek of him a right way for us, 
and for our little ones, and for all our substance.' This passage 
was singularly and strikingly adapted to the occasion; and the 
exhortation in this celebrated sermon breathed a noble spirit of 
christian liberty, and discovered a spirit of liberality, the more 
wonderful as the age was an age of bigotry; and proceeding, 
as it did, from one, who, at one period of his ministry, had been 
distinguished as a rigid and unyielding Separatist. * Brethren,' 
said he, ' we are now quickly to part from one another, and 
whether I may ever live to see your face on earth any more, 
the God of Heaven only knows; but whether the Lord hath ap- 
pointed that or not, I charge you before God and his blessed 
angels, that you follow me no farther than you have seen me 
follow the Lord Jesus Christ. If God reveal any thing to you, 
by any other instrument of his, be as ready to receive it, as ever 
you were to receive any truth, by my ministry; for I am fully 
persuaded, I am very confident, that the Lord has more truth 
yet to break forth out of his holy word. For my part, I cannot 
sufficiently bewail the condition of the reformed churches, who 
are come to a period in religion, and will go at present no far- 
ther than the instruments of their reformation. The Luther- 
ans cannot be drawn to go beyond what Luther saw; whatever 
part of his will our good God has revealed to Calvin, they will 
rather die than embrace it, and the Calvinists, you see, stick 
fast, where they were left by that great man of God, who yet 
saw not all things. 

' This is a misery much to be lamented, for though they were 
burning and shining lights in their times, yet they penetrated 
not into the whole counsel of God; but, were they now living, 
would be as willing to embrace further light as that which they 
first received, I beseech you to remember that it iis an article of 
your church covenant, that you shall be ready to receive what- 
ever truth shall be made known to you from the written word 
of God. Remember that, and every other article of your sa- 
cred covenant. But I must here, withal, exhort you to take 
heed what you receive as truth. Examine it, consider it, and 
compare it with other scriptures of truth, before you receive it; 
for it is not possible that the christian world should come so 
lately out of such thick anti-christian darkn€ss, and that per- 
fection of knowledge should break forth at once. 

' I must also advise you to abandon, avoid and shake off the 
name of Brownist.* It is a mere nickname, and a brand for 

* Brownist, the followers of Robert Brown, a sectary, whose prin- 



1620] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 263 

the making religion, and the professors of it odious to the christ- 
ian world.' Mr. Robinson also addressed a pastoral letter to 
his flock, in which he advised them in relation to spiritual mat- 
ters, exhorting to the practice of charity, and the bearing each 
others' infirmities, and finally bidding his departing brethren a 
most affectionate farewell. The entire letter may be seen in 
Morton's Memorial. 

On the 31st of July, 1620, the emigrants departed from Ley- 
den to embark at Delftlraven. They were accompanied by 
many of their afltlicted friends, and by some who came from 
Amsterdam. The nfext day they embarked for England in a 
vessel called the Speedwell, which they left and took passage 
on board the Mayflower for America, (seepage 14.) At the 
moment of their going on board at Delfthaven, Mr. Robinson 
fell on his knees, and with tearful eyes, in a most ardent and 
affectionate prayer, committed them to their Divine Protector. 
So great was the grief of this little church, all the members of 
which had been endeared to each other by so many circumstan- 
ces, and uEited by so many ties, that, when they finally separ- 
ated, the agonizing expression of it drew tears even from the 
eyes of the Dutch, who had assembled on the quay to see them 
depart, insensible as they usually were to sorrowful emotions. 
Well might it he said, behold how these christians love one 
another! It has be€n stated, that the Plymouth church was 
formed from the minority of the Leyden church, and the two 
churches were like a family, separated for a time, but impatient 
of a re-union. Robinson was still considered pastor of the Ply- 
mouth church; and his expected arrival prevented their ordain- 
ing another pastor., or teaching elder; and this was the less 
necessary, as Mr. Brewster, the ruling elder, was eminently 
qualified to discharge the duties of both elder and pastor. After 
the death of Mr. Robinson, he did, in fact, perform all the duties 
of the two offices, but refused to be ordained as pastor. The 
Rev. John Robinson was not indulged in his anxious desire to 
join that portion of his beloved flock which came to America; 
the means of the congregation being exhausted in the transporta- 
tion of those who came over, he continued at Leyden during 
the remainder of his life, w^hich -terminated March 1, 1625, in 
the fiftieth year of his age. His death caused the dissolution 
of the church and congregation over which he presided, and 
which his talents and piety contributed so much to render 

ciples were, in many respects, veryexceptionable, in the view of 
sober Christians, and who at length a-bandoned them himself, and 
conformed to the church of Englantl-. 



264 ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY [1620 

illustrious. A part of their numbers remained in Holland, and 
a part, with the widow and children, came to Plymouth colony. 
His posterity are yet numerous in various parts of New Eng- 
land. Mr. Robinson was buried in the charnel of the church 
in Leyden, assigned for the use of his congregation. Mr. 
Prince, the Chronologist, who visited Leyden, in 1714, was in- 
formed by the ancient people, as received from their parents, 
that as he was had in high esteem, both by the city and univer- 
sity, for his learning, piety, moderation, and excellent accom- 
plishments, the magistrates, ministers, scholars, and most of the 
gentry mourned his death as a public loss, and followed him to 
the grave. The late Dr. Belknap thus delineates his character: 

* Mr. Robinson was a man of good genius, quick penetration, 
ready wit, great modesty, integrity, and candor; his classic 
literature and acuteness in disputation were acknowledged by 
his adversaries; his manners were easy, courteous and obliging, 
his preaching was instructive and affecting. Though in his 
younger years he was rigid in his separation from the Episcopal 
church, by whose governors he and his friends were treated with 
unrelenting severity, yet, when convinced of his error, he open- 
ly acknowledged it, and, by experience and conversation with 
good men, became moderate and charitable, without abating his 
zeal for strict and real religion. It is always a sign of a good 
heart when a man becomes mild and candid as he grows in 
years. This was eminently true of Mr. Robinson. He learned 
to esteem all good men of every religious persuasion, and 
charged his flock to maintain the like candid and benevolent 
conduct. His sentiments respecting the reformers, as express- 
ed in his valedictory discourse, will entail immortal honor to his 
memory, evidencing his accurate discernment, his inflexible 
honesty, and his fervent zeal for truth and a good conscience. 
He was also possessed, in an eminent degree, of the talent of 
peace making, and was happy in adjusting differences among 
neighbors and in families, so that peace and union were preserv- 
ed in his congregation.' * Mr, Robinson,' says Mr. Baylies, 

* was a man of uncommon argumentative powers, and maintain- 
ed a controversy of doctrines, with great ability, against one of 
the most distinguished and learned professors of the university 
of Leyden. His farewell sermon is an evidence, not only of 
his ability, but of a liberality far transcending the bigotry of the 
age, and would do no discredit to these times.' The followers 
of Robinson, with their brethren in England, were denominated 
puritans, from their aversion to the prevailing ceremonies and 
government of the Episcopal church, which they deemed corrupt 
and .immoral; and it was in this that their puritanism consist- 



1624-9] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 265 

ed, more than in disputable points of doctrine and opinions. 
That they were utterly opposed to all human injunctions and 
restrictions in the worship of God, will abundantly appear from 
the whole tenor of their history and conduct. Although they 
disclaimed the name of Biownists, they maintained, in common 
with that sect, ' that every christian congregation ought to be 
governed by its own laws, without depending on the jurisdiction 
of bishops, or being subject to the authority of synods, presby- 
teries, or any ecclesiastical assembly, composed of the deputies 
from different churches.' 

A congregational church is a company of professed christ- 
ians possessing the exclusive right of self-government in mat- 
ters of religion, and so far independent as to be amenable to no 
earthly tribunal for the exercise of its rights and prerogatives. 
Its rights are to form its own terms of agreement, its own con- 
stitutions of doctrine, its own laws of discipline, accountable 
only to the great Head of all christian churches. 

In Prince's Chronology we have the following summary of 
the religious tenets of the Plymouthean Fathers. They main- 
tained that the inspired scriptures only contain the true religion, 
and especially, that nothing is to be accounted the Protestant 
religion respecting either faith or worship, but what is taught in 
them; and that every man has a right of judging for himself, of 
trying doctrines by them, and worshipping according to his ap- 
prehension of the meaning of them. Their officers were, 1. 
Pastors, or teaching Elders, who have the power of overseeing, 
teaching, administering the sacraments, and of ruling; and are 
therefore to be maintained. 2. Ruling elders, who are to help 
the pastor in overseeing and ruling. 3. Deacons, who are to 
take care of the treasure of the church; to distribute for the 
suppoit of the pastor, the supply of the needy, and the propa- 
gation of religion; and to minister at the Lord's table. 

In the year 1624, a minister, by name John Lyford, was sent 
over to be the pastor of this church, but he proved unworthy 
of confidence and regard. He manifested a perverse and 
factious spirit, and, forming a connexion with John Oldham, 
equally perverse, they created great disturbance and unhappi- 
ness in the church and among the people A particular history 
of these transactions may be found in page 62, of this volume. 

In August, 1629, thirty-five families of the Leyden church 
arrived at Plymouth; and on the 8th of May, 1630, another 
portion of about sixty in number arrived. They were received 
with great joy, and the expenses of their transportation were 
paid gratuitously by the undertakers, and they were supported 
from the public stores for mere than a year. No minister was 
23 



266 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1629-41 

settled over this church till the year 1629, when Mr. Ralph 
Smith, a man of ordinary capacity, having found his way to 
Plymouth, and being a pious, honest-minded man, was received 
and ordained the first pastor of the first church in Plymouth. 
He continued in that station five or six years, when, from his 
own sense of incapacity, and the persuasions of the people, he 
resigned his pastoral office. The next who officiated in the 
sacred office in that church, though not ordained, was the cel- 
ebrated Roger Williams. This gentleman had been liberally 
educated, and for a term a pupil of Sir Edward Coke, the illus- 
trious English lawyer. Mr. Williams possessed brilliant tal- 
ents, and great acquirements. He resided as minister at Ply- 
mouth about three years, from 1631; but, by his eccentricity 
of opinions, and, as supposed, unsound doctrines, his life and 
conversation became odious to the puritans; and, being him- 
self discontented, he was, by his own request, dismissed to the 
church at Salem. The subsequent history of this extraordina- 
ry character belongs not to this town, and must be sought for 
elsewhere.* Mr. John Norton; a man of great worth, came 
over from England in 1636, and preached one winter at Ply- 
mouth; and declining to settle, although earnestly desired, he 
soon after settled at Ipswich, and was, after the death of Rev. 
Mr. Cotton, translated to Boston, where he was distinguished 
as a learned divine. Shortly after the dismission of Mr. Smith, 
in 1636, the Rev. John Rayner was ordained his successor. He 
was a person of great humility, worth, and piety. The Rev. 
Charies Chauncy arrived at Plymouth about the last of De- 
cember, 1637, being a non-conformist from England. Hebe- 
came an assistafit in the ministry to Mr. Rayner, and continued 
here about three years, when, in 1641, he removed to Scituate, 
and was elected pastor of the church in that place, where he 
remained till November 27, 1654, when he was inaugurated as 
President of Harvard College. Mr. Chauncy was greatly and 
justly admired, and was strongly urged to settle in conjunction 
with Mr. Rayner, but he declined on account of some disagree- 
ment in point of doctrine, he having imbibed anabaptist princi- 
ples. The church and people were so warmly attached to him, 
that every possible effort was made to prevail on him to become 
their ordained pastor, but he declined every proposition to that 
effect. He would baptize by immersion only. To obviate the 

* Mr. Williams is entitled to the honor of beino- the first and only 
man of his time, who boldly asserted and advocated the great cause 
of religions toleration. He sternly supported the opinion, 'that an 
universsal liberty of conscience ought to be allowed to all, in reli- 
gioua matters.' 



1641-4] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 267 

objection, it was proposed that he should be permitted to bap- 
tize in both forms, but still he declined. At the birth of his 
twin sons while at Plymouth, Mr. Robert Hicks presented to 
the youngest, Elnathan, 50 acres of land, as a mark of his at- 
tachment to the parent. These twins, Nathaniel and Elnathan, 
were baptized at Scituate, in December, 1641, by immersion; 
from the coldness of the water one of them swooned away. 
In the history of Scituate, by Rev. Mr. Deane^ the singular 
character of Mr. Chauncy is fully delineated, ' President 
Chauncy,' says Rev. Dr. Eliot, in his Biographical Diction- 
ary, ' as professor of Greek and Hebrew, had no superior, and 
might have had any preferment in the national church, if he 
had become subservient to the views of archbishop Laud.' 

* A more learned man than Mr. Chauncy was not to be found 
among the fathers in New England. He was well skilled in 
many oriental languages, but especially in the Hebrew, which 
he knew by close study, and by conversing with a few who re- 
sided at the same house.' While at Scituate, he was involved 
in ecclesiastical controversy, but as president of Harvard Col- 
lege his brilliant services and high reputation will ever be grate- 
fully remembered. President Chauncy left six sons, all of 
whom were educated at Harvard College, and aU were preach- 
ers.* Governor Carver and Dr. S. Fuller had been chosen 
the deacons of this church while in Holland; after their deaths 
their places were supplied by Richard Masterson and Thomas 
Blossom, both of whom died about the year 1630. 

In the year 1632, a new church set off from Plymouth 
church, was formed at Duxbury, and another was soon after 
organized at Green's harbor, in Marshfield. 

In 1641, an ordinance passed the General Court, that no 
injunction should be put on any church or church member, as 
to doctrine, worship or discipline, whether for substance or cir- 
cumstance, beside the command of the bible. About the year 
1643 or 1644, many of the inhabitants having left the town by 
reason of the barrenness of the place, and others contemplating 
a removal, serious apprehensions arose that the church would 
soon be dissolved. It was therefore proposed, that the whole 
should remove bodily, and Nauset (Eastham) was chosen as 

* It was for a time the practice in congregational ordinations for 
laymen to bear a part in the solemnities by layinsr on hands. Dr.. 
Eliot, in his Biographical Dictionary, gives ns the following anec- 
dote. Wheli Israel Chauncy, son of the President, was ordained rnin-r 
ister of Stratford in Connecticut, in 1665, one of the lay brothers, in 
laying on hands, forgot to take off his mitten, and this was ridiculei 
by the Episcopalians by styling it t;,he Uath^r viitten ordiaation^ 



268 HISTORY aF PLYMOUTH. [1644 

the place for settlement. But on further consideration, the 
plan was relinquished; but a part of the church agreed to pay 
for the whole purchase, which had been made in the church's 
name, and proceeded to establish a new church at Eastham, 
which is the third branch from the ancient church; and thus 
was this poor church, (say the records,) left like an ancient 
mother grown old, and forsaken of her children, in regard of 
their bodily presence and personal helpfulness; her ancient 
members being most of them worn away by death, and those 
of later times being like children translated into other families; 
and she like a widow- left only to trust in God. Thus she, that 
had made many rich, became herself poor. (See page 87.) 

On the 16th of April, 1644, the church and society were most 
grievously afflicted by the death of William Brewster, their 
rulino- elder and kind benefactor. The life of this excellent man 
was by a kind Providence protracted to the 84th year of his 
age. His sacrifices in the puritan cause were eminently con- 
spicuous. His perils and sufferings, however trying, were 
equalled by his humility and patient resignation. Mr. Brewster 
was born in England in 1560, and educated at the university of 
Cambridge. He was a man of considerable abilities and learn- 
ing, and of eminent piety. Though well qualified for the pas- 
toral office, yet his great diffidence would not allow him to un- 
dertake the duties of it. In the destitute state, however, of the 
Plymouth church, his public services as elder were highly sat- 
isfactory and useful. In his discourse he was discriminating, 
yet pathetic; in the government of the church, as ruling elder, 
he was resolute, yet conciliatory. 

After leaving the university he entered into the service of 
William Davison, Queen Elizabeth's ambassador to Scotland 
and Holland ; who found him so capable and faithful, that he 
reposed the utmost confidence in him. He esteemed him as 
his son and made him his confidential friend. Davison, while 
negotiating with the United Provinces, entrusted him with the 
keys of Flushing, and the states of Holland were so sensible 
of his merit, as to present him with the ornament of a golden 
chain. When Davison incurred the hypocritical displeasure of 
the arbitrary Queen, and was by her reduced to a state of utter 
ruin and poverty, Mr. Brewster remained his steadfast friend, 
and gave him all the assistance of which he was capable. Be- 
ing thoroughly disgusted with the forms, ceremonies and cor- 
ruptions in the established church, he withdrew from its com- 
munion and united with Mr. Clifton and Mr. Robinson, and 
their newly formed society met on the Lord's day, at Brew- 
ster's house, and at hi& expense. He was appointed a ruling 



1644] EccLEsrisTrcAL srSTORt. 269 

elder, and he came over with the minority of Mr. Robinson's 
church, and suffered all the hardships attending their settlement 
in this wilderness, and partook with them of labor, hunger and 
watching; and he was always ready for any duty or suffering 
to which he was called. For many months together, he had, 
through necessity, lived without bread; having nothing but fish 
for his sustenance, and sometimes was destitute of that. He 
enjoyed a healthy old age, lind was able to continue his eccle- 
siastical functions, and his field labor, till within a few days of 
his death, and was confined to his bed but one day. He left 
an excellent library for that day, valued at £43, as appraised 
by Governor Bradford, Mr. Prince and Rev. Mr. Rayner. The 
whole number of volumes was 275, of which 64 were in the 
learned languages. 

Elder Brewster's two eldest daughters. Patience and Fear, 
were left in Leyden, and arrived in the Ann in 1624. Mr. 
Robinson writes to him from Leyden, ' I hope Mistress Brew- 
ster's weak and decayed health will have some repairing by the 
coming of her daughters, and the provisions in this and the 
other ships sent. — {Pltjm. Ch. Recoy^ds.) Patience was, soon 
after her arrival, married to Mr. Thomas Prince, and, before 
1627, Fear was married to Mr. Isaac Allerton.* In the divi- 
sion of the cattle in 1627, Elder Brewster was at the head of lot 
No. 5. As his wife is not mentioned, it may be presumed that 
she was not living at that time. His sons and unmarried daugh- 
ters, contained in that list, are Love, a son, Wristling, Jona- 
than, Lucretia, William, and Mary. It would appear, there- 
fore, that he had eight children, two of whom, it is supposed, 
were born in this country. These were probably the two last 
in the list, William and Mary. In an award made August 1645, 
by William Bradford, Edward Winslow, Thomas Prince and 
Miles Standish. between Jonathan Brewster and Love Brewster, 
they are mentioned as the only surviving sons of Elder Brew- 
ster. (Colony Records y i. 199.) There are many descendants 
from this respectable stock who still reside in Duxbury, Kings- 
ton, and Plymouth. When the south part of Harwich was 
separately incorporated, in 1803, it received the name of Brew- 
ster, in honor of the venerable pilgrim. A brig was launched 
in Plymouth, in 1822, and received the name of Elder Brew- 
ster. 

*In one of the voyages from Plymouth to Massachusetts, when 
Elder Brewster and Isaac Allerton were on board, the three Brew- 
sters were named in honor of the elder, and point Allerton on Nan- 
tasket for Mr. Allerton, 

23* 



270 HISTOfRy OT PLYMOUTH. [1644 

The Rev. Dr. Belknap published an interesting biographical 
sketch of Elder Brewster; and a very ample character of him, 
written, as Judge Davis supposes, by secretary Morton, is 
found in the records of the first church in Plymouth. This is 
copied into the late edition of the Memorial, and also into the 
valuable history of the Old Colony, by the Hon. Francis Bay- 
lies; from this last production I extract the following elegant 
paragraph. ^ With the most submissive patience he bore the 
novel and trying hardships to which his old age was subjected, 
lived abstemiously, and, after having been in his youth the com- 
panion of ministers of state, the representative of his sovereign, 
familiar with the magnificence of courts, and the possessor of 
a fortune sufficient not only for the comforts but the elegancies 
of life, this humble puritan labored steadily with his own hands 
in the fields for daily subsistence. Yet he possessed that happy 
elasticity of mind which could accommodate itself with cheer- 
fulness to all circumstances; destitute of meat, of fish and of 
bread, over his simple meal of clams, would he return thanks 
to the Lord that he could suck of the abundance of the seas, 
and of treasures hid in the sand.' By his removal to Ley den 
with Robinson's church, he sacrificed the most of his estate.* 
About four or five years after Mr. Brewster's decease, the 
church made choice of Mr. Thomas Cushman, as his successor 
in the office of ruling elder; he was the son of Mr. Robert 
Cushman, who has been frequently mentioned in these pages^ 
as eminently useful in the transaction of the various concerns 
of the colony. The son inheriting the same spirit as the father, 
and well qualified by gifts and graces, proved a great blessing 
to the church; assisting Mr. Rayner, as Mr. Brewster had done 

* The following note was presented to our pastor by Hon. Judge 
Davis. 

'When Elder Brewster resided in Holland, among other modes of 
exertion for obtaining a livelihood, we are informed that " he set up 
printing, (by the help of some friends ) and so had employment enov^h? 
Having lately met with a copy of CartwrighCs Commentaries on the 
Book of Proverbs^ which appeared to have been printed at the El- 
der's Leyden press, or to have been published by him, in that city, 
in the year 1617, I ask leave, with respect and filial regard, to pre- 
sent the volume to the First Church in Plymouth, to be carefully 
kept by their pastor, Rev. James Kendall^ D. D., and by succeeding 
pastors of that ancient church, with whom the memory of Eider 
Brewster is peculiarly and deservedly precious.' 

'Boston, Nov. 20th, 1828.' 

This volume is in Latin, and contains 1513 pages, large octavo. 

Another copy of the above work is in the library of the Pilgrim 
Society presented by the relict of the late Judge William Gushing. 



1648] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY, 271 

before him: it being the professed principle, in this church, to 
choose none for governing elders, but such as are able toteach. 

In the year 1654 the church was deprived of their estimable 
pastor, Mr. Rayner, after very acceptable services for about 
eighteen years. His character as a preacher of the gospel, and 
a wise orderer of church affairs, is described by his cotempora- 
ries in a most advantageous point of view. The dissolution of 
the connexion was occasioned by the reduced state of the church 
and by an existing prejudice against a learned ministry by 
means of secretaries, then spreading through the country. In 
fact, the troubles and difficulties which this church were called 
to encounter, were innumerable and almost insupportable; but 
it was founded on a rock, and sustained by Almighty power. 
*Mr. Rayner,' say the church records, 'was richly accom- 
plished with such gifts and qualifications as were befitting his 
place and calling: being wise, faithful, grave, sober, and a lov- 
er of good men, not greedy of the matters of the world,' &c. 
He dissolved his connection with the church in November, 
1654, to the great regret of the church and people, and was 
afterwards settled at Dover, N. H., where he remained until 
his death, in 1669. 

In 1648, a meeting house was erected in Plymouth; no di- 
mensions are given, but a bell was attached to it. 

In 1634, that ruthless persecutor of puritans, Archbishop 
Laud, obtained a commission from King Charles I., wherein 
he, together with the Archbishop of York, and ten more of the 
minions of Laud, some of whom were papists, were empow- 
ered to revoke all the charters, letters patent, and rescripts- 
royal, before granted from the crown to the several colonies and 
plantations; and to make such laws and constitutions as to 
them should seem meet, to remove and displace the several 
governors and rulers of those colonies, for causes which to 
them should seem lawful, and others in their stead to constitute, 
and punish those of them that were culpable, by mulcts and 
fines, or banishment from those places they had governed; or 
otherwise to punish, according to the degree of their offence. 
To remove any of those colonists as well as their rulers, causing 
them to return to England, or commanding them to other places 
assigned, as according to their sound discretions should seem 
necessary; and to constitute judges and magistrates, political 
and civil, for civil causes, and to fix upon them such a form of 
government, as to five or more of them should seem expedient. 
And also to make laws and constitutions, ecclesiastical, and 
to ordain spiritual courts, to determine on the torm and manner 
of proceeding ih the same, and the method of appeals, &c. To 



272: HISTORY or Plymouth. [1648 

assign ciongruent portions, tythes, oblations, and other things 
for the maintenance of the clergy, and to make provision 
against the violation of any of their constitutions by imposing 
penalties, by imprisonment, and, if the quality of the offence 
require it, by deprivation of members of life, to be inflicted, &c. 
This arbitrary commission, subjecting the country to abject 
slavery, is recorded at large by Secretary Morton in the church 
records, that ' after ages may improve it, els an experiment of 
God's goodness in preventing its taking effect, to the destruc- 
tion of the Plymouth and other New England churches. There 
is no mention throughout this arbitrary commission that the 
laws and ordinances to be enacted by them should be conform- 
able to the laws of England. In pursuance of the aforesaid 
commission, Sir Ferdinando Gorges, was, by the Archbishop's 
favor, constituted General Governor of the country. But Mr. 
Edward Winslow, being then an agent in England for the col- 
onies, by his indefatigable endeavors, aided by the influence of 
some great men, the storm was happily diverted, Mr. Winslow 
however, shared their vengeance by being committed to the 
Fleet prison, where he remained about seventeen weeks.* 
Had the commission been carried into execution, the Plymouth 
church, and all others in the colonies, must have been entirely 
annihilated. The great perplexities and troubles occasioned by 

*The facts were these. The mischievous Thomas Morton, whose 
turbulent conduct at Mount WoUaston, is noticed in the N. E. Me- 
morial, was employed by Archbishop Laud and others to complain 
against the colonists before the lord's commissioners for plantations, 
to which Mr. Winslow presented a counter statement, which was 
received as satisfactory. Morton was reproved, and others censured 
for countenancing him. This excited the ire of the Archbishop; 
who was induced to avenge himself on Mr. Winslow, personally, 
alleging;, that, being a layman, he had assumed the ministerial office 
in teaching publicly in the church, and in solemnizing marriages. 
Morton beinnr produced as evidence, testified to the facts. Mr. 
Winslow replied, that sometimes, when destitute of a minister, he 
did exercise his gift to help the edification of his brethren, when 
better means could not be had ; and as to the second charge, he ac- 
knowledged that he had married some, but as a magistrate, not as a 
minister ; that marriage was a civil ordinance, and he nowhere found 
in the word of God that it was confined to the ministry ; that neces- 
sity obliged them to it, having for a long time together at first no 
minister ; that the thino^ itself was no. novelty in the reformed church- 
es, he himself having been married by the magistrate in Holland, in 
their State House. These replies availed not, and the archbishop, 
by ' vehemement importunity, procured their Lordship's consent to 
his commitment, upon these and other like charges.* 



1667] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 273 

the new sect of quakers obtruding themselves about the year 
1650 and 1660, have already been detailed in a preceding 
page. The synod of 1662, decided, that all baptised persons were 
to be considered members of the church, and if not scandalous 
in their lives, admitted to all its privileges, except a participa- 
tion of the Lord's supper. This decision was acquiesced in, 
by the Plymouth church, and most of those of New England. 
But by some it was contended, that this division was departing 
from the ancient strictness in admitting persons to the Lord's 
supper, and abandoning the principles, that particular churches 
ought to consist of regenerate persons only. It gave rise to 
what has been commonly called the Halfway Covenant, which 
was deemed a declension from, and indifference to vital religion. 
The provision, that none should have the right of freemen but 
those who were members of some church, was attended with 
some serious consequences; it prepared the way, in some in- 
stances, for corruption in doctrine and practice, and operated to 
the injury of churches, and the detriment of the cause of religion. 
No examination for church membership could, in all cases, de- 
tect the real motive for the application, and the desire for the 
enjoyment of civil privileges might be concealed under the veil 
of religion. Church membership being a qualification for the 
privileges of freemen, was a source of great dissatisfaction, 
and was discontinued, partly in 1664, and entirely about 1686. 
In the years from 1664 to 1666, Mr. James Williams and Mr. 
William Brimsmead officiated as the ministers of Plymouth, 
but made no permanent settlement. 

1667.— November 30th. Mr. John Cotton, Jr., son of the 
famous John Cotton, of the first church of Christ in Boston, 
commenced his ministerial duties in Plymouth, and on JTune 
30th, 1669, was ordained over the first church in this place, 
having transferred his church membership from Boston. The 
churches represented were Barnstable, Marshfield, Weymouth, 
and Duxbury. Elder Thomas Cushman gave the charge, and 
the aged Mr. John Rowland was appointed by the church to 
join in imposition of hands. The Rev. Mr. Walley made a sol- 
emn prayer, and the Rev. Mr. Torrey gave the right hand of 
fellowship. The ruling elder, with the pastor, made it their first 
special work to pass through the whole town, from family to fam- 
ily, to inquire into the state of souls, &.c. At Mr. Cotton's first 
settlement, there were resident in the place 47 church members, 
in full communion, and on August 1st, Mr. Robert Finney and 
Mr. Ephraiin.Morton were chosen deacons, and were ordained 
by the elders, In January following, the church agreed to begin 
monthly church meetings for religious conference, which were 



274 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1667 

constantly attended for many years, and much good resulted 
from that exercise, being on Saturday afternoon previous to the 
sacramental communion. The number admitted to full commun- 
ion during the first year of Mr. Cotton's ministry, was twenty- 
seven. In 1670, fourteen; the next year, seventeen. In 1672, 
six, and during the 30 years of his ministry, there were 178 
members admitted. Mr. Cotton remained in the ministry at Ply- 
mouth until 1697 ; during that whole period he was indefatigable 
in his exertions to convert the heathen, and no less so in gain- 
ing members to his own church. He requested all such members 
of his church as were heads of families, to attend once in two 
months, and receive from him sundry questions, which they were 
to answer from the scriptures. Having read their answers, he 
gave his own, and preached on the subject. It had been the 
practice in the Plymouth church for candidates for admission to 
fellowship, to present an open relation of the experiences of a 
work of grace in the heart; but in 1688, some alteration in this 
respect was made, and it was agreed that such as were bashful 
and of low voice, and not able to speak in public to the edifica- 
tion of the congregation, the elders might bring before the church 
in private, but voting their admission should be before the con- 
gregation; they having been examined and heard before by the 
elders in private, and they stood propounded in public for two 
weeks. The relations of the women, being written in private 
from their mouths, were read in public by the pastor, and the 
elders gave testimony of the competency of their knowledge. 

In town-meeting, October 29th, 1668, it was agreed to allow 
to Mr. Cotton the sum of £80 for the following year, one third 
part in wheat, or butter, one third part in rye, barley or peas, 
and the other third in Indian corn at stipulated prices. In 1677, 
the same sum was allowed him, and to continue till God in his 
providence shall so impoverish the town that they shall be neces- 
sitated to abridge that sum. In November, 1680, it was voted 
to convey to Mr. Cotton the minister's house and homestead, 
and to his heirs forever, except the lot given to the church by 
Bridgett Fuller and Samuel FuJler, which reserve is the parson- 
age at the present time. The homestead given to Mr. Cotton 
was adjoining the present parsonage, on the east side. August 
4th, 1687, it was proposed in town-meeting to allow Mr. Cotton 
£90 for that year, but it was opposed by a large majority, as ex- 
ceeding their ability, and it was then agreed that the minister's 
salary should be paid by voluntary subscription. In 1694, Mr. 
Isaac Cushman was invited to settle as a religious teacher with 
a church and society formed in that part of Plymouth which is 
now Plympton, The acceptance of Mr. Cushman laid the foun- 



1667] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 2l5 

dation of an unhappy and lasting division between Mr. Cotton, 
the pastor, and his church; the pastor strenuously contended 
that Mr. Cushman ought not to settle before being designated 
to the office of ruling elder by the church. This controversy 
continued about three years with considerable warmth, and oc- 
casioned the withdrawal of some of the members of the church. 
At length, many ill reports were propagated, injurious to the 
reputation and feelings of Mr. Cotton; and a mutual council 
was called, with a strong desire of a permanent reconciliation 
of difficulties. But this proving unsuccessful, it was deemed 
advisable that the pastor ask a dismission, and that the church 
grant it, ' with such expressions of their love and charity as 
the rule called for.' Mr. Cotton accordingly resigned his of- 
fice, and, at his request, was dismissed October 5th, 1697, to 
the great grief of a large number in the church and town, who 
earnestly desired his continuance. After this he tarried more 
than a year in Plymouth, in which time he preached some sab- 
baths in Yarmouth; and then having a call to Charleston, South 
Carolina, he accepted the same, and having made up all differ- 
ences with the Plymouth church and received a recommenda- 
tion from several ministers, set sail for Carolina, November 
15th, 1698, where he gathered a church, and was very abun- 
dant and successful in his labors, as appears from a daily jour- 
nal, under his hand, which is yet extant. 

Mr. Cotton died at Charleston, much lamented, on the 18th 
of September, 1699, aged about 66. In the short space of his 
continuance among that people, th^re were about 25 members 
added to the church and many baptized. He was treated with 
the highest honor and respect, and the church manifested their 
affection for his memory by taking the charge of his funeral, 
and erecting a handsome monument over his grave. The church 
in Plymouth erected a stone to his memory also, in the burial 
ground, with a suitable inscription. From a diary kept by Jo- 
siah Cotton, Esq., I have copied the following sketch of the 
life of his father: ' John Cotton, son of the minister in Boston, 
was born March 15th, 1639 — 40, graduated in 1657, and 
preached at various places in Connecticut, and afterwards in 
Old^own, on the Vineyard, where he learnt the Indian lan- 
guage. He had a vast and strong memory, and was a living 
index to the Bible; if some of the words of almost any place of 
scripture were named, he could tell the chapter and verse; and if 
chapter and verse were named, he could tell the words. He 
sometimes preached in the Indian language, and he corrected 
the second and last edition of the Indian bible. He prayed in 
Indian, in his Indian lectures. His method of preaching was 



276 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. [1676-86 

without notes. He had a good gift in prayer, in which he 
greatly enlarged on particular occasions. He was a competent 
scholar, but divinity was his favorite study. He discharged 
the work of the ministry to good acceptance, both in public and 
in private, and was very desirous of the conversion of souls. 
He ruled his house like a tender parent; was a hearty friend, 
helpful to the needy, kind to strangers, and doubtless a good 
man. And yet, what man is there without his failings? He 
was somewhat hasty, and, perhaps, severe, in his censures 
upon some persons and things, which he thought deserved it; 
and that possibly might occasion some hardships he met with, 
and the violence of some people against him. But the bright- 
ness of the celestial world will effectually dispel the blackness 
of this.' Mr. Cotton strenuously opposed ' the sabbath being 
called Sunday, as it originated with some heathen nations who 
were worshippers of the sun, that planet being the object of 
their idolatry.'* 

In July, 1676, the church, and all the churches in the colony, 
(at the motion of the general court,) solemnly renewed covenant 
with God and one another, on a day of humiliation appointed for 
the purpose; wherein, after confession of the prevailing evils 
of the times, they entered into strict engagements, through the 
assistance of divine grace, for personal and family reforma- 
tion. The children of the church bore a part in this transac- 
tion. The church also renewed covenant in the like method, 
in April, 1692; which transactions were attended with much 
solemnity, and were, according to the account of the church in 
Plymouth, of great service to the interest of vital piety. But 
a few months after the first renewal of the covenant in 1676, it 
was ascertained that some of the brethren walked disorderly, 
in sitting too long together in public houses with vain company, 
and drinking. The church unanimously consented that a reason 

*The following were the children of the Rev. John Cotton and 
Joanna his wife. Those market! f died young. 

John, born in Guilford, Connecticut, August 3d, 1661. 
Ehzaheth, do. do. August 6th, 1663. 

Sarah, born at Martha's Vineyard, January 17th, 1665.^ 
Roland, born at Plymouth, December 27th, 1667." 

Sarah, . - - . April 5th, 1670. 

Maria, - _ . _ January 14th, 1672. 

A Son, - - - September 28th, 1674. f 

Josiah, - - - September 10th, 1675. f 

Samuel, . - . February 10th, 1677. f 

Josiah, . - _ - January 8th, 1679. 

Theophilus, - - - May 5th, 1682. 



1686] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 277 

should be demanded of the party thus offendmg, and if any did 
not give satisfactory reason, it should be accounted just mat- 
ter of offence. The eiders then propounded that due care 
might be taken of the children of the church, that they might 
not transgress. 

In 1683, a new house for public worship was erected on the 
same spot occupied by the other, 45 feet by 40, and in the walls 
16 feet, unceiled, gothic roof, diamond glass, with a small cu- 
pola and bell. 

1686. — Deacon Finney being disabled by infirmities and old 
age from going abroad, Mr. Thomas Faunce was unanimously 
chosen deacon in his steady and was ordained December 26th, 
as follows: 

Brother Thomas Faunce was ordained deacon of this church, 
the pastor and elder laid on hands, the pastor then prayed and 
gave the charge, and then the elder prayed; the charge was 
giveii in the following words: 

' Since the Lord and this his church have chosen you, our 
brother, Thomas Faunce, to the office of Deacon in his house, 
we do, therefore, in the name of the Lord Jesus Christ, the 
head of the church, whom God the father hath established to 
be his king in Zion, ordain and set you apart to the special of- 
fice and employment of a deacon in this church of God, and, 
as from the Lord, we charge you to use the office of deacon well, 
and that you give diligent heed to all those rules in the Holy 
word of God which set before you the nature and bounds of this 
your office and work; and, in particular, the Lord requireth of 
you that you receive the offerings of the church and congrega- 
tion, and that you therewith conscionably serve all the tables 
of the church, distributing the offerings made to the Lord with 
gospel simplicity, not only the ministry of this church, but also 
with cheerfulness, showing mercy to the Lord's poor among us, 
as they may need thereof, according to what you are betrust- 
ed withal, for such ends and purposes; we charge you in the 
name of the Lord to be faithful herein, that you may stand in the 
great day of the appearing of the Lord Jesus, who will then, 
before angels and men, call you to give an account of this your 
stewardship. And we do further, from the Lord, charge you, 
that you labor the growth and exercise of all those graces that 
are requisite to furnish you with ability for a regular discharge of 
this weighty work, which God now calls you unto, namely, wis- 
dom, gravity, sincerity, freedom from guile, sobriety, spiritual 
and heavenly mindedness, not inordinately reaching after the 
things of the world; and that, in your whole conversation, you 
endeavor to be found blameless, exercising yourself to have a 
24 



278 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1694 

conscience void of offence towards God and man, providing 
for honest things not only in the sight of the Lord, but also in 
the sight of men, that you rule your own family well in the fear 
of God, and that you hold the mystery of the faith of the gos- 
pel in a pure conscience. All which, if in the uprightness of 
your heart you labor in and for, you will then purchase unto 
yourself a good degree and great boldness in the faith which is 
in Christ Jesus; which the Lord grant unto you for his mercy 
sake in Christ, who is our Lord and life. And for which great 
and gracious blessincrs let us further call upon the holy name of 
God.'* 

Deacon Finney died January 7th, 1687, at 80 years of age. 
His colleague, Deacon Morton, survived until October 7th, 
1693. On the 11th of Decem.ber, 1691, died Mr. Thomas 
Cushman, the elder, aged 84 years, having officiated in that 
office near 43 years. December 16th was kept as a day of hu- 
miliation, on account of his death; and a liberal contribution 
was made for his widow, as an acknowledgment of his great 
services to the church. 

In October, 1681, was introduced the practice of reading the 
psalms line by line, when singing in meeting; it being proposed 
by a brother, who, as is supposed, could not read. The elder 
performed this service, after the pastor had first propounded 
the psalm. In the spring of 1694, the pastor introduced a new 
method of catechising, attending it on sabbath day noons, at 
the meeting-house, the males and females alternately, and 
preaching on each head of divinity as they lie in order in the 
catechism. This course was constantly attended through the 
summer, communion days excepted, and many of the con- 
gregation attended. Our present Sunday Schools appear to 
be a revival of this practice, and reflect honor on our an- 
cestors. 

In March, 1694, the church chose George Morton, Nathaniel 
Wood, and Thomas Clark, to be deacons, and nominated Dea- 
con Faunce and Isaac Cushman, for elders. In the same year 
Jonathan Dunham and Samuel Fuller received calls, and were 
ordained to the work of the ministry; the former to Edgartown, 
(Martha's Vineyard,) the latter at Middleborough, where a 
church was at the same time gathered, consisting partly of 

* 'Anno 1687. Mary Carpenter, (sister of Mrs. Alice Bradford, 
the wife of Governor Btadfbrd,) a member of the church atDuxbiiry, 
died in Plymouth, March ]9-'-20, being newly entered into the 91st 
year of her age. She was a Godly old maid, never married.' Plym. 
chh. records. 



1699-1716] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 279 

members from Plymouth church. Mr. Fuller died about 
eight months after, aged 66 years. This was a great public 
loss, as he was a pious christian, and a useful preacher.* 

The same month that Mr. Cotton received his dimission, the 
church engaged Mr. Ephraim Little to officiate in the pastoral 
duties; and, after about two years probation, he was ordained 
their pastor, October 4th, 1699. The churches assisting were 
those of Weymouth, Marshfield, Duxbury, and the second in 
Plymouth. The second church in the town had been formed 
about a year before, and Mr. Isaac Cushman was their ordained 
pastor. This was the fourth church derived from the Plymouth 
church, and was seated at a place since called Plympton. In 
April, 1699, the church chose Deacon Thomas I'aunce their 
ruling elder, to assist Mr. Little in church affairs; and he was 
ordained to that office by Mr. Little and Mr. Cushman, October 
25th, 1699. He was a man of considerable knowledge, emi- 
nent piety, and great usefulness, always full of religious dis- 
course. In May, 1706, this church and all the churches in the 
province, had a contribution for the Island of St. Christophers, 
which had been insulted and ravaged by the French. 

February 6th, 1707, at a church meeting, the pastor proposed 
to the church the setting up private family meetings, in the re- 
spective neighborhoods in the towns, for family and other spirit- 
ual exercises, which was approved and agreed upon. On the 
3d of June, 1715, the meeting-house built in 1683 was struck 
by lightning, and very much shattered. In June, 1715, a day of 
fasting and prayer was observed on account of the great sick- 
ness and mortality prevailing in the town, ' about 40 dying in a 
little time; and behold! a gracious God so farheard the cries 
of his people that the sickness abated, and there was no death 
for many weeks after.' In the spring of the year 1716, the 
church unanimously chose Mr. Thomas Foster and Mr. John 
Atwood to the office of deacons; but the pastor, questioning the 
lawfulness and expediency of ordination in such cases, declined 
it for a time; at which the majority of the church, being much 

* Mr. Fuller was the son of Dr. Fuller, who came over in the first 
ship, and was so useful as a physician and surgeon, and a deacon in 
the church. 

The follovvino- is recorded in the Old Colony Book of Records : 
'Bridgett Fuller and Samuel Fuller, both of Plymouth, for sever- 
al reasons moving us thereunto, do by these presents freely jrive un- 
to the church of Plymouth, now in being, for the use of a minister, 
a certain garden plat, being half an acre more or less, to the only 
proper use of the church of Plymouth for the ends abovesaid, to 
said church successively forever*' Pated March Jst, 1664. 



280 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1718-31 

dissatisfied, he at last conceded to give them a solemn charge, 
but without the imposition of hands, which was done accord- 
ingly, the pastor beginning with prayer, and the elders conclud- 
ing. July 19th, 1718, Ephraim, the son of Eleazer Holmes, 
"was baptized on a Saturday at his house, he being at the point 
of death, and died about six hours after. This being the first 
instance of that nature in the town, viz., of baptising privately, 
the pastor sets down the grounds of the proceeding, as follows: 
* 1. The child was undeniably a proper subject of baptism, the 
mother being in full communion. 2. I never could find that 
baptism, (viz., the administration of it,) is any where in the 
scripture limited to the sabbath, or a public assembly, and I al- 
ways had a greater regard to the scripture than the custom or 
practice of any minister, or church,' &c. In 1717, the inhab- 
itants of the north part of the town were set off from Plymouth, 
and called Jones's River Parish. They organized a" church, 
which was the fifth springing from the Plymouth church. Their 
first minister was Rev. Joseph Stacy, who was ordained No- 
vember 3d, 1720. 

The Rev. Ephraim Little died November 23d, 1723, aged 47 
years. His remains lie in Plymouth burial place, being the 
first minister buried there, after one hundred and three years 
settlement. He left no children, and his widow was supported 
by annual grants from the town, during her life. 'He was a 
gentleman more inclined to the active, than the studious life; 
but should be remembered for his useful services as a minister, 
and for his exemplary life and conversation, being one of good 
memory, a quick invention, having an excellent gift in prayer, 
and in occasional performances also excelling. But what can 
never b . -^ufficiently commended, was the generosity of his 
spirit, and his readiness to help all that were in distress.' After 
Mr. Little's decease, and the ministers of the neighborhood had 
taken their turns in supplying the pulpit, Mr. Nathaniel Leonard 
was chosen to succeed him, on the 13th of February, 1724, 
and was solemnly ordained on the 29th of July following. The 
churches sent to were those of Taunton, Cambridge, Scituate, 
south church, Pembroke, Middleborough, Bridgwater, north 
and ^outh churches, and Sandwich. January 22d, 1727, the 
church elected Mr. Haviland Torrey and Mr. Thomas Clark 
to the office of deacons. March 18th, Deacon Clark died; on 
the 29th of ]3ecember, Deacon Torrey was ordained, with 
pr.ayer and imposition of hands. 

A precinct was made at Manomet Ponds in 1731, but not in- 
corporated. On the 8th of November, 1747, a church was em- 
bodied there, consisting of 25 members from the parent church; 



1731] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 281 

and Jonathan Ellis was ordained the pastor. This was the sixth 
derived from the ancient church, and the second of Plymouth. 
Mr. Ellis was enthusiastic ; he participated in all the extravagan- 
ces and fanatic irregularities introduced by Andrew Croswell, a 
few years after his settlement, and proceeded to such excesses 
of religious frenzy, that his people thought proper to dismiss 
him, preferring, they said, to travel from 7 to 9 miles to meeting, 
rather than countenance his conduct. A council was convened, 
and by its advice Mr. Ellis was dismissed, October 31st, 1749. 
He soon after however, received a call from the church at Little 
Compton, where he was installed December 5th, 1749.— 
December 26th, 1753, Elijah Packard, of Bridgewater, was 
ordained at Manomet Ponds; sermon by Rev. Mr. Perkins, Mr. 
Leonard, Mr. Angier, and Mr. Bacon assisting. Mr. Packard 
continued their minister till 1757, after which the society con- 
tinued destitute thirteen years. In 1770, April 18th, Rev. 
Ivory Hovey was installed over the church at Manomet Ponds, 
where, to use his own words, he ' lived peaceably and comfort- 
ably.' This pious and venerable man died greatly lamented,. 
November 4th, 1803, four months advanced in his 90th year. 
Mr. Hovey graduated at Harvard in 1735, and in October, 
1740, he was ordained at Rochester south parish, whence, at 
his own request, he was dismissed in 1769, in consequence of 
sectarian influence. He kept a diary, comprised in nine octavo 
volumes of almost 7000 pages. ' How uniform and how tran- 
quil must have been the tenor of his way.** Blessed are the 
meek. Mr. Hovey was an exemplary christian, and mutual at- 
tachment and love subsisted between him and his people. The 
successor of Mr. Hovey was Rev. Seth Stetson, who was or- 
dained July 18th, 1804; the sermon was preached by Rev. Mr. 
Barker, of Middleborough, Mr. Niles and Mr. Judson, assisting 
in the solemnities. Mr. Stetson commenced his ministry reput- 
edly a devotee to Hopkinsian doctrines; after a few years he 
adopted unitarian principles, and again wavering his faith, he 
became a convert to the universal sentiments, when the con- 
nexion was dissolved. 

The precinct at Manomet Ponds was incorporated in 1810, 
when its boundaries were enlarged, including Halfway Ponds. 
Rev. Harvey Bushnell succeeded Mr. Stetson, and was ordain- 
ed November 21, 1821. He continued his connexion but a 
short time, and was succeeded by Rev. Moses Partridge, in 
1824, who died, greatly lamented, September 25th, of the same 
year, aged 36 years. Rev. Joshua Barret, was ordained in 
1826. The present pastor is the Rev. Gains Conant. 

After several years consideration, the Plymouth church voted 
24* 



282 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1733-43 

their consent to the synod's propositions, in 1662, relating to 
the subject of baptism; it being ever their practice, before, to 
admit only the children of communicants to baptism. 

January 31, 1733-4. — At the motion of the pastor, the first 
church unanimously voted to desire the deacons to catechise 
the children between meetings on the sabbath, as soon as the 
days were sufficiently lengthened; to ask them four or live 
questions at a time, till they had learnt through the catechism. 

In February, 1743, Mr. Andrew Croswell, a famous itinerant 
preacher, came to this town, and commenced preaching and 
exhorting in such a wijd manner as to throw the whole town 
into the utmost confusion. On a sacrament day he publicly de- 
clared that he had reason to think that three quarters of the 
communicants of that day were unconverted. Curiosity in- 
duced many people to attend his preaching, and his audience 
soon became very numerous. His meetings were sometimes 
continued the whole twenty-four hours, with little intermission, 
allowing the people no time for serious, calm reflection. At 
length the disorder became so great that it appeared as though 
the people were affected with a religious delirium. Croswell 
was so lost to all sense of propriety and decorum, that he actu- 
ally pressed negroes and children into the pulpit to exhort the 
people, and having their own passions excited, noise and outcry 
filled the assemblies. Those friends to religion and order who 
opposed these irregularities, or would not go the whole length 
with Croswell, were called enemies to religion and God. The 
Rev. Mr. Leonard, the pastor of the first church, gave coun- 
tenance and encouragement to these extravagant proceedings, 
and additions were made to his church. This strange infatu- 
ation continued several weeks, and an alteration was observable 
among the people, but a change from open profaneness and ir- 
religion to a boisterous extravagance of enthusiasm and rash 
judging of others is not to be deemed a proper reformation. 
Many serious people were offended, some absented themselves 
from the communion, some went to other meetings, or stayed 
at home. The friends of rational sober religion deprecated the 
system of itinerant preaching, as calculated to subvert the influ- 
ence and counteract the labors and exertions of settled pastors, 
destructive to church order and decency, and having a direct 
tendency to unsettle faithful ministers of churches, and cause 
discord among the brethren. 

Josiah Cotton, Esq., a member of the first church, being 
alarmed for the honor of religion and the prosperity of the 
church, made a written request, that \h<i pastor would assemble 
the church to consider the foUowinjr things: — 



1743] ECCLESIASTICAL. HISTORY. 283 

' 1. Whether a sudden and short distress, and as sudden joy, ' 
amounts to the repentance described and required. (2 Corin. 
vii. 9— 11.) 

' 2. Whether the judging and censuring others as unconvert- 
ed against whose lives and conversation nothing is objected, be 
not too Pharisaical, and contrary to the rule of charity prescrib- 
ed in the Word, and a bold intrusion into the divine preroga- 
tive. 

' 3. Whether that spirit vi^hich leads us off from the scrip- 
tures, or comparatively to undervalue them, be a good spirit; 
as, for mstance, the disorder and confusion in our public meet- 
ings, contrary to the scripture rule, (1 Cor. xiv.) the breaking 
in upon the order and rdigion of families, by frequent, unsea- 
sonable evening lectures, without scripture precept or exam- 
ple, (except one extraordinary case.) 

' 4. Women and children teaching and exhorting in the pub- 
lic assemblies, contrary to the apostolical direction. Many 
other things might be mentioned, but are omitted. But inas- 
much as it has been publicly suggested that three fourths of 
this church are unconverted, we would humbly move that we 
may meet together, in order to know whether they are in char- 
ity with one another, and also, that the admission of members 
may not be too hastily pushed on, till we are better satisfied 
concerning the spirit that stirs up people to their duty herein.' 

It does not appear that this addre5?s received the required at- 
tention; and a part of the society, dissatisfied with the prevail- 
ing disorder, resolved to separate, ' the old lights from the new.' 
Josiah Cotton, Esq., with eighty others, petitioned to be separ- 
ated from the old society, which was granted; and in J744, a 
new church and society was formed from the old, and was 
called the Third Church and Congregation in Plymouth. This 
was the seventh from the ancient church. The venerable El- 
der Faunce was an opposer of Croswell, and on this occasion, 
a seceder from Mr. Leonard's church. This new society erect- 
ed a house of worship, which was dedicated by Rev. Mr. Eels, 
of Scituate, January 5th, and he preached in it again on the 
following sabbath. This house was located in King's, now Mid- 
dle street, and was a neat, convenient edifice, of wood, with a 
tower and spire in front. The lot was a donation from Thomas 
Murdock, Esq. Croswell continued to distinguish himself by 
his arrogance and fiery expressions against many who were es- 
teemed as the best of men in society. He held the opinion, 
that holiness of heart and life is no good evidence of justifica- 
tion; but that il lays in some feelings, or impressions, or mani- 
festations of the love of God, and joy in him, nnlhout^ or beside 



284 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1744-6 

"the saiptiire. His many trances, visions, dreams, and extacies, 
finally cooled the wild proceedings, and terminated the delusion. 

In 1744-5, Mr. Whitefield, an English Episcopal clergyman, 
about twenty-five years of age, itinerating through the coun- 
try, came to Plymouth by invitation and preached six sermons 
to a very numerous audience. The power of his oratory, ac- 
companied as it was, by very extraordinary gesticulations, and 
by great fluency and readiness in speaking without notes, to- 
gether with his new and unusual phraseology", and his zeal in 
the cause to which he had devoted so much labor, was very 
captivating with most people, though some did not like and 
others would not hear him. 

Mr. Whitefield came again to Plymouth, November 1755, 
and preached five sermons in three days, with popular applause. 

The Rev. George Whitefield, in 1749-50, made a public 
confession (in print) that he had been too free with the charac- 
ters of men, and also using the apostolic style in his writings, 
giving^ too much heed to impulses, and having too much wild- 
fire in his zeal; all which he condemned, but his admirers ap- 
proved. — Cotton's MS. Diary. 

July, 1744. — The first society in Plymouth, erected a new 
meeting-house, which they began to raise on the seventeenth, 
and on the twenty-ninth they began to meet in it. Mr. Leon- 
ard preached on the occasion. 

JYovember 1th, 1744. — ^Rev. Thomas Frink, who had been 
minister at Rutland, was installed as pastor of the third church 
and society in this town, when Rev. Dr. Chauncy of Boston 
preached the sermon. This connexion continued till 1748, 
when by mutual consent Mr. Frink returned to Rutland. He 
is said to have possessed strong mental powers, and handsome 
literary acquirements. He was graduated at Harvard College 
in 1722. 

May 2d y 1745. — Mr. Thomas Foster, son of the late pious 
Deacon Foster, and Mr. Joseph Bartlett were chosen deacons. 

Februai^j 27th, 1745-6. — Thomas Faunce, ruling elder in the 
first church, died at the advanced age of ninety-nine years. 
He was the son of John Faunce. The father dying while the 
son was a child, Captain Thomas Southworth took him by the 
hand at the grave, led him to his own home, and from that time 
bestowed on him paternal affection. In the family of Mr. 
Southworth he was educated and instructed, and here his mind 
received the rudiments of those principles of humility and piety, 
by which he was so remarkably distinguished in after life. It 
has been related, that the elder has often been heard to say 
that for this educatioii he should have reason to bless God to 



1754] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 



285 



all eternity. He was first chosen deacon and afterwards elder, , 
and he was the last that held that office. In those days the of- 
fice of elder was one of great consideration. An elder was 
regarded as the virtual representative of the church, and on an 
equality with the pastor. He was hound to keep a watchful 
eye over the doctrines preached as well as the principles and 
practices of the brethren. 

The Elder's house stood on the west side of the road near 
Eel river bridge. The house in which Mr. Josiah Morton now 
lives was a new addition attached to the ancient house, which 
was taken down about thirty years ago. Elder Faunce had two 
sons and two daughters, and the descendants are very numerous. 

Rev. Jacob Bacon, who had been a minister of Keene, New 
Hampshire, about ten years, was installed over the church of 
Plymouth, in 1749, of which he continued the beloved and 
respected pastor till 1776, when the connexion was dissolved 
by mutual consent, the society still diminishing in consequence 
of the war. Mr. Bacon preached about eighteen months at 
Plympton, second parish, (now Carver) whence he retired to 
Rowley, where be died 1787, in the eighty-first year of his age. 
Mr. Bacon was born at Wrentham, 1706, graduated at Har- 
vard College 1731. 

October Sd, 1754. — Mr. John Torrey, son of the former dea- 
con, was chosen to that office. In the autumn of the year 1755, 
the Rev. Mr. Leonard labored under many infirmities of body, 
and, in the spring of 1756, he asked a dismission, which the 
church granted on certain conditions. The precinct agreed to 
give him ^£160, lawful money, and he removed his family to 
Norton, June, 1757 — dismission from his pastoral relation to 
the church not to be completed till another minister was settled. 
The connexion with the Rev, Mr. Leonard being thus dissolv- 
ed, the church used unwearied endeavors for the resettlement 
.of the gospel ordinances among them; but it was two _years before 
their desirable purpose could be accomplished. Among the 
numerous candidates, were a Mr. Sproat, then settled in Con- 
necticut, afterwards mini.ster in Philadelphia ; Mr. Whitney, 
Mr. West, and not less than four or five others. At length the 
church and congregation were happily united in the choice of 
Mr. Chandler Robbins of Branford in Connecticut. The votes 
in the church being thirty-three to two, in the parish fifty-two to 
nine. The stipulated annual salary was £100 lawful money, 
with the improvement of the parsonage, and the privilege of 
cutting firewood from the parish lot. The parish also agreed to 
build for his use a parsonage house, which is the one now stand- 
ing on the north side of Leyden street, and occupied by the 
present pastor. 



286 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1794 

Mr. Robbins was solemnly ordained to the work of the min- 
istry, January 30th, 1760. The churches assisting on this oc- 
casion were, the first, third, and fourth, of Bridgewater; the 
first of Rochester; the first of Plympton; the first of Middle- 
borough ; Abington ; Halifax ; Bristol ; Taunton; Raynham; 
Berkley; Milton; and Branford, in Connecticut. The sermon 
was preached by Rev. Philemon Robbins, of Branford, the 
father of the pastor elect. On the same day that Mr. Robbins 
was ordained, the church, pursuant to agreement, and by the 
advice of the council, gave Mr, Leonard, who was personally 
present and assisted in the laying on of hands, a dismission in 
the most cordial terms, and a free and hearty recommendation 
to other churches. In 1783, the third church and congrega- 
tion united with the first church and congregation into one pa- 
rish. The meeting-house belonging to the third parish was de- 
molished, and the lot disposed of, leaving an alley-way, six feet 
wide, through said lot. 

In 1794, about fifty persons of high standing in the parish, 
not in all points satisfied with the ministry of the Rev, pastor, 
advanced proposals for a separation, and a formation of a new 
religious society, offering at the same time to erect a new house 
for worship. This proposal received attention at the hands of 
the pastor and church, and committees were chosen by the 
parties. Interviews and consultations ensued, compromise and 
reconciliation were attempted, but in vain. On the side of the 
church, the most rigid adherence to rules, precepts, and doc- 
trines, was manifested. The applicants, too honorable to tor- 
ture the feelino;s of a conscientious minister, and deeminjj the 
peace of society too precious to be disturbed, yielded to the 
stronger side, consenting still to pay their proportion .for the 
support of preaching preferred by the majority, and contenting 
themselves with the report of their committee, which closes as 
follows: ' Upon the whole, the committee are constrained to 
lament the narrow policy of the church, in excluding from its 
communion many exemplary christians, merely on account of 
their different conceptions of some points of doctrine, about 
which learned and good men have entertained a great variety 
of opinions, and this circumstance is more especially a source 
of regret at this enlightened period, when the principles of civil 
and religious liberty are almost universally understood and 
practised; for, whatever stress some persons may be disposed 
to lay on matters of mere speculative belief, the benevolent 
genius of the gospel will teach its votaries, amidst all their dif- 
ferences of opinion, to exercise mutual candor and indulgence 
that they may, if possible, preserve the unity of the spirit in 
the bond of peace.' 



1799J ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 287 

June 30, 1799. — Rev. Chandler Robbing, D. D. departed this 
life, aged 61, after a ministry of 39 years over the ancient 
church and congregation in this town. He was born at Bran- 
ford in Connecticut, August 24, 1738. His father was Rev. 
Philemon Robbins, a native of Cambridge, Mass. who gradua- 
ted at Harvard College 1729. He graduated at Yale College 
1756, and he is said to have been there distinguished as a cor- 
rect classical scholar, and besides common acquirements in the 
classics, he learned the French language, which he read, wrote, 
and occasionally spoke, through life. In his church records, I 
find one instance in which he performed the marriage ceremony 
in the French language. ' Ecwhj impressed with the truth and 
importance of the christian system, and qualified, by divine 
grace, for the gospel ministry, he commenced a preacher of 
this holy religion b'efore he reached the age of twenty.' Dur- 
ing his ministry he was ever anxious to be instrumental in soft- 
ening the callous heart of impiety, and silencing the tongue of 
infidelity: and his exemplary piety and religious zeal were cal- 
culated to shield liim from the reproaches .of those who dissent- 
ed from his doctrines. In him was an example of religion 
united with taste and accomplishments, courteous manners with 
an amiable cheerfulness of disptjsition. The funeral solemni- 
ties of Dr. Robbins were performed in the meeting-house, 
when the throne of grace was addressed in an impressive man- 
ner, by the Rev. Mr. Shaw, and an ingenious discourse was 
delivered by the Rev. Mr. Sanger. His remains were deposit- 
ed in the Plymouth burial ground, with the puritan fathers, the 
parish by a committee, directing the solemnities and defraying 
the expense. On a subsequent sabbath the Rev. William Shaw 
delivered a well-adapted discourse, which was published and 
dedicated to his bereaved family and flock. 

Dr. Robbins manifested, unceasingly, an interest and solici- 
tude for the cause of religion in general, and for the welfare and 
prosperity of the church and society of which he was the pastor. 
In theological sentiment. Dr. Robbins was strictly Calvinistic, 
believing the^i^e poinfs equally essential with any points in holy 
writ. He also adopted some of the peculiar doctrines and tenets 
of Hopkins, with which his sermons were often tinctured, to the 
displeasure of many of his hearers. His occasional sermons 
were delivered with graceful eloquence and animation, which 
seldom failed to receive the applause of his audience. When, 
in May, 1794, he preached before the convention of ministers, 
from Acts xx. 26: 'I am free from the blood of all men,' 
— corning out o^ the house. Dr. Clark of Boston, cordially 
thanked him for his excellent sermon. Dr. Morse asked him, 



238 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1799 

why he did that, since he did not concur in the sentiments 
which had been delivered? He replied, ' I love to see a min- 
ister act the part of an honest man.' He observed to a friend, 
that he felt it to be his duty on that occasion to offer a distinct 
exhibition of his own views of the christian salvation. His suc- 
cess in producing and maintaining the harmonious union of 
his numerous flock, was remarkable. But his peculiar suavity 
of manners and christian humility, with his felicity of expres- 
sion, rendered his religious sentiments acceptable to many 
persons, who would not have well received similar sentiments 
from any others. He maintained, for several years, an exten- 
sive correspondence with English clergymen; one of these, 
whom he held in much estimation, was Rev. John Newton, 
rector of Olney, in London. Dr. Robbins coinciding with this 
gentleman in religious views, imported numerous volumes of 
his works, for the use of those of his parish who maintained 
similar sentiments. 

A Doctorate in Divinity was conferred on him at Dartmouth 
College, in 1792, and by the University of Edinburgh, in 1793. 
His pastoral cares were very extensive, comprising the whole 
town, with the exception of Ponds' parish, subsequent to the 
year 1783, when the third church and society united \yith the 
first. In the discharge of his laborious duties, he was ever 
found faithful and kind. He preached chiefly without notes, 
having before him, as he termed it, the skeleton of his sermon: 
In prayer, he was peculiarly devotional and fervent. His voice 
was melodious, and his taste for music, both vocal and instru- 
mental, was truly refined. Notwithstanding his parish was one 
of the laro-est in the commonwealth, and a considerable porti(m 
entertained sentiments opposed to those of the pastor, yet not a 
family but could unite under the same altar in the bonds of 
charity. Whatever may have been the diversity of opinion en- 
tertained by such a multitudinous assemblage, peace and har- 
mony were seldom interrupted, nor affection and respect for the 
minister diminislied. Dr. Robbins was consoled and encouraged 
in his ministerial labors by the accession of about fifty members 
to his church in the latter part of his life, and an uncommon 
engagedness in the cause of religion among the people of his 
charge. Ttie poorest family in the parish would meet him at 
the threshold with delight, the sick and aflflicted relying whh 
perfect confidence on his cordial sympathy and condolence. 

Dr. Robbins was destined to live during a remarkable period 
of our national history. In the revolutionary struggle he was 
a most zealous advocate for liberty and independence, and ren- 
dered essential advantages to the cause in his sphere of action. 



1799] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. ^89 

He was among the foremost of our patriotic clergymen, and 
subsequently, when our political hemisphere was darkened by 
party spirit, he pursued a consistent course in the support of 
order and good government. He married Jane Prince, of 
Boston, niece of late Rev. Thomas Prince, the annalist of 
New England. This accomplished lady died September, 1800, 
aged 60 years. 

Their children who lived to adult age, were five sons and 
two daughters; two of the sons were graduates of Harvard, one 
of whom died at Marietta, where he was settled in the ministry. 
Two sons and a daughter still survive. 

Dr. Robbins's publications bore such strong marks of the 
divine^ the gentleman^ and the scholar, as to reflect much honor 
on his name and memory. They are as follow: — 

Replies to Essays of Rev. John Cotton, on the practice of 
the half-way covenant. — Sermon on the death of Madam Wat- 
son, consort of George Watson, Esq., of Plymouth. — Sermon 
on the death of Mrs. Hovey, wife of James Hovey, Esq. — At 
the ordination of Rev. Lemuel Le Baron, at Rochester, 1772. 
— At the annual election, Boston, 1791. — Address commemora- 
tive of the French Revolution, 1793. — Sermon on the anniver- 
sary of the landing of the fathers at Plymouth, December 22d, 
1793. — Century Sermon at Kmgston, 'April 2d, 1794, at the 
request of its subject, Ebenezer Cobb. — Sermon brefore the 
Massachusetts Convention of Ministers, 1794. — Sermon at the 
ordination of Rev. Eliphalet Gillet, at Hallowell, August 12th, 
1795. — Address before the Massachusetts Humane Society, 
June 14th, 1796. — Sermon at the ordination of Rev. Ward 
Cotton, at Bo)'lston, 1797. 

After the death of Dr. Robbins, the pulpit was supplied by the 
ministers who composed the association to which he belonged, 
and the salary was continued for the benefit of the widow and 
family. The selection of a candidate to fill the office of pastor 
to this ancient church and congregation, was considered as a 
measure requiring great circumspection. A clear majority 
were in favor of a learned and enlightened clergyman, possess- 
ing liberal principles, free from all sectarian dogmas, who would 
preach the christian salvation in its pure simplicity ; while a re- 
spectable minority manifested a conscientious adherence to the 
faith and doctrines of their late beloved minister, whose memo- 
ry they cherished with filial affection. Their feelings and de- 
sires were to be consulted, and it would have been unkind to 
deprive them of their rights, or to control their opinions. The 
parish committee proceeded to the choice of a candidate, Mr. 
James Kendall, a native of Sterling, who commenced his proba- 
25 



290 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1800-1 

tionary course on the 2d sabbath in October, 1799. In Decem- 
ber, he received an invitation to become the pastor of the church 
and congregation, which, with much dehberation, he accepted. 
The call was first given by the church, 23 to 15, and concurred 
in by the congregation, 253 to 15. A committee of three from 
the church, and five from the parish, was chosen to make prepar- 
ations for the ordination^ The day appointed for that solemnity 
was January 1st, 1800; and the churches invited were, second 
church in Andover, church in Sterling, first church in Cam- 
bridge, church in Dorchester, third in Newbury, Brattle street 
in Boston, church in Kingston, third church in Bridgewater, 
church in Carver, church in Marshfield, second in Plymouth, 
second in Rochester, first in Middleborough. Also, were in- 
vited President Willard, Rev. Dr. Tappan, and all the govern- 
ment of Harvard college. The sermon was preached by Rev. 
Mr. French, of Andover, and the other solemnities were per- 
formed by Rev. Dr. Peter Thacher, Rev. Dr. Tappan, Rev. 
Mr. W. Shaw, and Rev. Mr. Rowland, of Carver. On the 
following sabbath two excellent sermons were preached by Dr. 
Tappan, which were published. Rev. Mr. Kendall graduated 
at Cambridge, in 1796, and was a tutor there when he received 
the invitation to settle. The honorary degree of D. D. was 
conferred on him at Harvard University in 1825. The condi- 
tions of settlement were, six hundred dollars salary, and the. 
improvement of the parsonage, consisting of a house and gar- 
den, and several pieces of land and meadow; subsequently, 
one hundred dollars were added, in consideration of fire wood. 

In October, 1800, the Rev. Dr. Dwight, then President at 
Yale college, passed a sabbath in this town, and officiated in 
our pulpit. In his third volume of travels, he makes the fol- 
lowing remark: * On Sunday, we found a large and very 
decent audience in the old church. A singular custom was 
here exhibited to us; more than fifty bills were read by the 
clergyman, desiring the prayers of the congregation for fam- 
ilies in affliction. They were, principally, occasioned by the 
death of nine inhabitants, almost all of them at sea, which 
had either happened, or been first heard of, during the preced- 
ing week. In such a case, it seems a bill is presented for ev- 
ery branch of a family, which is peculiarly interested in the mel- 
ancholy event.' This practice is now, in a great measure, dis- 
continued. 

In 1801, the third congregational church of Plymouth was 
organized from the first church, and is the seventh branch from 
the original stock, now existing. In 1802, Deacon John Bishop 
and one hundred and fifty -three others were incorporated into a 



1814-24] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 291 

society, by the name of the third congregational society. In 
their petition, they stated the first parish consisted of 3044 souls, 
and more than 500 rateable polls, making it inconvenient to 
worship in one house. This new society erected a house of 
worship in 1801, in a pleasant situation fronting the training 
green, sixty feet by fifty -two, with a cupola and bell. Their 
first minister was Rev. Adoniram Judson, who had formerly 
been pastor of a church and society at Maiden, county of Mid- 
dlesex. He was installed May 12th, 1802, and becoming a 
baptist, the connexion was dissolved August i2th, 1817. 

Mr. Judson was held in respect for his moral virtues, and his 
meek and pious demeanor. He died in Scituate, in 1826. The 
oldest son of Mr. Judson has been a zealous and respectable 
Baptist Missionary in the Birman empire, since the year 1812. 
The Rev. William T. Torrey succeeded Mr. Judson, and was 
installed January 1st, 1818, and he was dismissed March 12th, 
.1823. It is understood that the cause of his dismission existed 
with the church, there being a majority in the congregation in 
his favor. 

On the 26th of November, 1814, the first church was called 
to mourn the death of a pious and beloved brother, Deacon 
William Crombie, aged eighty-three years. He was a native 
of Andover, and officiated in the office of deacon nearly thirty- 
eight years. ' He was,' says the church records, ^ a good man, 
and an excellent spirit was in him.*^ This was fully verified 
during the whole course of his life; being meek and humble in 
his temper, few men exhibited clearer evidence of a pure and 
upright heart. He had several children; but one only, the 
widow of the late Dr. Nathaniel Bradstreet, of Newburyport, 
survives. 

In 1814, a new church and society were formed at Eel river, 
from the first and third congregations, and being incorporated, 
they erected a meeting-house in that village, which will accom- 
modate the inhabitants in that vicinity and South Ponds, who 
were distant from three to six miles from their former place of 
worship. This is the fourth congregational church and society 
in Plymouth, and the Rev. Benjamin Whitmore is their min- 
ister. 

A Baptist church was constituted here in 1809, and the Rev. 
Lewis Leonard was ordained their first pastor. Rev. Caleb 
Blood, of Boston, preached the sermon. Mr. Leonard was suc- 
ceeded by Rev. Stephen S. Nelson, July 28th, 1820, who con- 
tinued his connexion till May, 1823, when R.ev. Benjamin Graf- 
ton became their pastor. He resigned in May, 1829, when the 
office devolved on Rev. Thomas Conant, their present pastor. 



292 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1824-31 

In 1821, this society erected a commodious bouse of worship, 
in Spring street. 

We have a small society in town of the denomination called 
Christians. The sentiments of this denomination have been 
explained at large by Rev. Mr. Clough. They object to the 
Trinity and other Calvinistic doctrines. By some they are 
called Free-will Baptists. Mr. Joshua V. Himes was ordained 
their minister, in 1825. This connexion was soon dissolved, 
but without any faulty conduct on his part. 

In 1824, Rev. Frederic Freeman succeeded Rev. William 
T. Torrey, as pastor of the third church and congregation in 
this town, and was installed accordingly, having been ordained 
in North Carolina, as an Evangelist. * This church ever have 
been Calvinistic in doctrine and practice, and their pastor was 
professedly of the same orthodox persuasion. But in 1830, six 
years after his settlement, the church became greatly agitated 
by a spirit of disaffection according to the statement of the 
aggrieved party; a majority of the church manifested a desire 
that the pastoral connexion should be dissolved. To prevent 
this, a compromise by a division of the church was agreed upon, 
and a mutual council was called to sanction the measure of 
separation. This council convened on the 17th of March, and 
the result of their deliberations was a separation of the aggriev- 
ed party, consisting of 59 members, to be formed into a distinct 
church. The seceding division then convened another council, 
April 13th, by whom they were organized, and they are denom- 
inated the Robinson Congregational Church. This is the fifth 
church in Plymouth, and a society consisting of seceders from 
the third congregation having united with them, they, in 1831, 
erected a handsome house of worship in Pleasant street, and 
engaged Rev. Charles J. Warren as their religious instructor. 
Thus our churches multiply by divisions and subdivisions. 

The first Universalist society in Plymouth was organized 
March 10th, 1822, and incorporated in February, 1826. The 
same year, they erected a handsome meeting-house on the north 
side of Leyden street. The dimensions are 50 by 70 feet, con- 
taining 76 pews. The house is handsomely painted inside and 
out, and is furnished with a superior toned bell, an eight day 
clock, and an elegant chandelier and stove. The house was 
dedicated December 22d, 1826; the sermon was preached by 

* Mr. Preeman is the son of Nathaniel Freeman, Esq., late of 
Sandwich. He repaired to North Carolina when young, where he 
married, and was employed as a teacher, in an institution for the in- 
struction of youth.. 



1831} ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 293 

the Rev. David Pickering, of Providence, and in the afternoon 
the Rev. James H. Bugbee was ordained the minister of the 
society, the ordaining sermon by Rev„ John Bisbee, of Hart- 
ford. They have a church, which, in 1833, consisted of 33 
members, and the society is composed of 172 rateable polls.* 
*As a religious society, they sacredly maintain and believe that 
point of doctrine which affirms that there is no positive scripture 
proof oi" any punishment in a future and immortal state of exist- 
ence. One proof of their views may be found recorded in 
Prov. xi. 31.^-— Communicated by Dr. R. Capen. 

In May, 1833, Mr. Freeman, the pastor of the third church 
and society, was again involved in personal animosity and con- 
tention with his people. He was now obliged to ask his dis- 
mission from the church, and at a parish meeting the ministerial 
connexion was, by unanimous consent, dissolved. 

The Rev. Mr. Thomas Boutelle was ordained over the third 
Congregational Church and society. May 21st, 1834. The 
officiating ministers were. Rev. Dr. Humphrey, President of 
Amherst college; Rev. Mr. Gay, of Bridge water; Rev. Mr. 
Dexter, of Plympton; Rev. Mr. Cobb, of Rochester; Rev. 
Mr. Winslow, of Boston; Rev. Mr. Nott, of Wareham, and 
Rev. Mr. Holmes, of New Bedford. 

JS'ew Meeting-House of the First Parish. 

'Beautiful in its elevation is Mount Zion!' 

In the year 1831, the first parish in Plymouth came to the 
resolution to demolish their old meeting-house, which was in a 
state of decay, having stood eighty-seven years. A large pro- 
portion of the pews, from the numerous changes that had taken 
place for years past, were in the hands of persons not connect- 
ed with the parish; and those who were desirous of becoming 
proprietors, would not involve .themselves in the expense to 
which a decayed house is co.nstantly liable. A committee of 
disinterested persons was appointed to appraise the pews in the 
old house, and the building was sold at auction. In bidding 
adieu to this ancient temple, to which the society retained a de- 
voted attachment, as the house of their fathers' worship, the 
Rev. Dr. Kendall, on the 10th of April, 1831, preached an ap- 
propriate sermon in his excellent style, in which he gave a brief 
history of our ancient church, and a detail of the several socie- 
ties derived from it. During the interval of eight months, in 
which the new house was in building, the church and congre* 

*Rev. Mr. Bugbee died May 10th, 1834. 

25* 



294 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTIT. [1831 

* 

gation held their pubhc worship in the county court-house, 
where they were provided with convenient accommodations. 

On Wednesday, the. 14th of December, 1831, the new meet- 
ing-house of the first parish was dedicated to the worship and 
service of God. A numerous and highly respectable congre- 
gation was assembled. Prayers and reading the scriptures were 
performed by Rev. Mr. Kent, of Duxbury, Rev. Mr. Goodwin, 
of Sandwich, and Rev. Mr. Cole, of Kingston. The Rev. 
pastor, Dr. Kendall, delivered an excellent catholic sermon, 
from Ezra vi. 16. Among the various topics, the speaker ad- 
verted with reverence to the venerable pastor of the pilgrims, 
and his puritan associates. In speaking of the sacred temple, 
his invocation was, ' May these consecrated walls never rever- 
berate with licentious opinions, the shouts of fanaticism, nor 
the denunciations of bigotry.' The services were closed by a 
fervent and impressive prayer by Rev. Mr. Brooks, of Hing- 
ham. During the services, four hymns were sung, three of 
which were composed for the occasion. 

The worshippers in this, house are Unitarians, believing that 
^Unitarian Christianity is the only system of faith and duty 
which can be drawn from the New Testament by a just inter- 
pretation of its contents.' 

This noble edifice is composed of wood, and is a beautiful 
specimen of church architecture. It was designed by George 
W. Brimmer, Esq., of Boston, and executed by an ingenious 
artist, Mr. Richard Bond, of Boston, who completed the work 
in a manner highly creditable to himself, and satisfactory to the 
parish. 

The body of this church measures 71 ^ee^t by 60, and from 
the floor to the spring of the ceiling is 36-^ ^eei, — is without 
galleries, except that for the singers, which is in the tower, over 
the entrance into the lower part of the house, and opens under 
a large gothic arch of 42 feet base. This gallery is lighted by 
the high gothic window in front, and thus the whole length of 
the building is seen from the pulpit. The floor accommodates 
124 pews, the interior of which are painted light green, while 
the exteriors are in beautiful imitation of oak, by Mr. Whita- 
ker, and are capped with mahogany. The side windows, which 
are eighteen feet high, and seven feet wide, contain 284 dia- 
mond lights each; — the glass being ground, the light is uniform 
and agreeable. The pulpit is of common form, the pannels and 
balusters gothic, and the whole painted in imitation of oak. A 
crimson silk curtain is suspended from a gothic cornice, and on 
each side of the pulpit is a candelabra supporting a handsome 
bronze lamp; and there is also on each side a smaller lamp, on 



1831] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 295 

a moveable stand. The house is warmed by two furnaces in the 
lower apartment, the heat ascending through a niche on each 
side of the door. The front is four lieet wider than the body of 
the church, has a tower projecting IH feet, a,nd rising 87 feet 
in height, with encircled octagon pillars at the corners, sur- 
mounted with ornamental pinnacles, and has wings, with simi- 
lar pillars at their cornices and on the sides. The wings con- 
tain the stairs which lead to the singers' gallery and to the bel- 
fry. The front door is pannelled and of a low arch, over whic^ 
is a quartrefoil band. Above this is the front window, 36 feet 
high and 124 feet wide, containing 540 diamond lights, and is 
divided like the side windows, into three divisions, with gothic 
scrolls at the bottom. The whole expense of this superb buildr 
ing, including the cellar, does not exceed §^10,000. In the 
afteraoon on the day of the dedication, the pews were offered 
at auction, and 103 were sold at an advance above the apprais- 
al of nearly $1800. The amount of sales has been sufficient 
to defray the expense of building the new house, to pay the 
pew holders in the old house, and leave a surplus of about 
$2,500. 

During the building of this house,, the workmen refrained en- 
tirely from the use of ardent spirits. 

The first house of worship in this town was erected in 1648; 
it stood lower down in the town square than the site of the pres- 
ent house, and was furnished with a bell. In 1683, another 
was built on the same spot, 45 feet by 40, and 18 feet in the 
walls unceiled, gothic roof, diamond glass, with a small cupola 
and bell. In 1744, a third church was erected on this conse- 
crated ground; the raising commenced on the 17th of July, and 
on the 29th of the same month it was opened for public wor- 
ship. The dimensions were about 72 by 64 feet, and the spire 
was 100 {"eet high, surmounted with a handsome brass weather- 
cock. In the same year a seceding society erected a meeting- 
house in Middle street; this was the effect of great zeal in 7iew 
light limes, and there was no other secession during the remain- 
der of the last century. Since the commencement of the pres- 
ent century, eight houses for public worship have been erected 
here, either by new societies or by rebuilding. 

The ancient church stands at the present time on a firm basis, 
and is in prosperity, worshipping the God of our fathers, reject- 
ing some of their dogmas, but cherishing the same essential 
principles of christian iaith and practice, and acquiescing to the 
fullest extent in the free enjoyment of each individual in the 
mode of worship which conscience may dictate. 

In the year 1819, Dr. Francis Le Baron, then in public ser- 



296 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. [1831 

vice at New York, presented an elegant set of desk bibles for 
the use and benefit of the first church and society in Plymouth, 
as a testimony of his respect and regard for the sociehj, with 
which his ancestors had been connected, and the church where 
he received christian baptism. ;■ 

In 1 822, Hon. Judge Davis, having had the loan of the church 
records for the purpose of compiling a new edition of Morton's 
New England Memorial, with considerable additions, and hav- 
ing for that purpose extracted several pages from said records, 
proposed to vest the copy-right of this new edition of the Me- 
morial in the first church and society of Plymouth, the profits 
to be applied to the relief of the poor. But subsequently, he 
proposed that the copy-right should be transferred to the Pil- 
grim Society, on the condition that the said society deliver to 
the first church one hundred and ten copies of said work for 
every 3000 copies which they may publish, and in the same pro- 
portion for a greater or less number, being in full for a consid- 
eration of the transfer. 

It is remarkable that the meeting-house, which was built in 
1683, was, on the 3d of June, 1715, struck by lightning, and 
considerably shattered, and on the 22d of November, 1831, the 
present house, when nearly finished, suffered a similar fate; the 
north-east pinnacle was entirely destroyed, with some other 
damage, and the whole edifice narrowly escaped conflagration. 
Fortunately the building was insured, and the expense of re- 
pairs paid by the underwriters. A few years since, a large 
elm tree, standing within a few yards of the same place, was so 
much injured by lightning, that it died soon after. These in- 
cidents serve to show the expediency of lightning-rods and of 
insurance. 

In closing this history, our spirits are animated with the pros- 
pect of amendment in our moral world, and in our day. The 
unrighteous spirit of intolerance and persecution binding down 
the human mind by bonds of religious faith, is evidently on the 
wane. We have a cheering hope that our moral feelings will 
no longer be disturbed by the practice of aspersing the charac- 
ters of pious and exemplary men on the grounds of difference 
of opinion in mysterious points of doctrine. This uncharitable 
temper has too long been a scourge to society, and we can have 
no sympathy with proceedings so manifestly inconsistent with 
the christian cliaracter. By indulgence these guilty passions 
gain strength, harden the heart of man, and lead to licentious- 
ness. But we rejoice that the day has arrived when every citi- 
zen may think as he pleases upon subjects of religion, and qui- 
etly offer his devotions in whatever temple, and whatever form 
his own judgment and conscience may prescribe for him. 



1831] ECCLESIASTICAL HISTORY. 297 

A learned and candid spirited clergyman, having perused the 
foregoing church history, offers the following as a closing para- 
graph:— 

' In reading over the foregoing pages, the writer would unite 
with his candid readers in a grateful acknowledgment of the 
rich mercies of the God of Heaven to this most ancient church 
of the United States. The band of Pilgrims, who stepped upon 
this inhospitable shore 212 years ago, with no support but the 
Almighty arm, so often made bare for their protection, have 
now become a great people. And we trust they are destined by- 
Divine Providence, as they have hitherto done, still to perform 
an important part in forming the character of the American 
church, and the American empire.' 

N. B. — ' Church and Parish are two distinct bodies ; the 
church is a religious body, and the parish is a civil body. The 
civil law has no control over a church, as such. A church is 
a religious society altogether independent, and governed by the 
principles of the religion which its members profess. A con- 
gregational church, according to the definition given in what 
has been called the New England Platform, ' is by the institu- 
tion of Christ, a part of the militant visible church, consisting 
of a company united in one body by an holy covenant, for the 
public worship of the Lord Jesus.' Now a church is without 
power or authority in temporal matters, of course not amenable 
to any earthly tribunal. The character of a minister of the 
gospel, settled according to the common mode in New England, 
is the pastor of the church and the minister of the parish. The 
practice of the country has been for the church to give the min- 
ister a call to become their pastor, but no salary is stipulated 
by them. The relation between the church, as a church, and 
their minister, has always been considered a spiritual relation 
only. A church is at liberty, by a vote, to withdraw themselves 
from their pastor, if a part only, those who are in the minority 
and in his favor, will still be his church. Those who withdraw 
themselves are no longer of the church. Should the whole 
withdraw, he is still the minister of the parish and entitled to his 
salary, provided his misconduct do not forfeit it. By the old 
State laws, the church members had the sole right of electing 
the minister of the parish; and when a majority of tho|e mem- 
bers had agreed on the man, although the parish were to a man 
against him; yet the advice of five neighboring churches being 
had, the man was settled, became the minister of the parish 
and the court of sessions had a right to assess the inhabitants 
for his support. The law which authorised this piece of reli- 
gious tyranny was the never failing source of dissention and di- 
vision, and finally compelled the government to pass sundry 



298 



HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 



[1831 



acts of toleration for the relief of the people. If the church do 
not agree that the teacher chosen by the parish, in which they 
are inhabitants, shall be their pastor, they may choose another; 
but they cannot expect the parish to maintain him. The first 
principle in a civil corporation is, that a majority shall govern, 
and it is the duty of the religious body to acquiesce. A law 
under the old constitution, gave the church a power, (five 
churches advising thereto,) to settle the minister within the 
voice of the parish: and, by the same act, if there were 300 
voters in the parish, and the church consisted of 20 members, 
the town could have a minister, if ten of the 20 were against it. 
But now the town, as a town, have the vote to themselves. 
When a minister is settled, the church, as a church, have no 
right to dispose of the money of the parish." 

The following are the names of Deacons of the church in 
Plymoitih. 



John Carver, ) 

Samuel Fuller, ) 
Richard Masterson, 
Thomas Blossom, 
John Doane, ) 

William Paddy, ] 
John Cook, > 

John Dunham, ) 
Robert Finney, 5 
Ephraim Morton, j 
Thomas Faunce, 
George Morton, " 
Nathaniel Wood, 
Thomas Clark, ' 
Thomas Foster, ) 
John Atwood, 
Haviland Torrey 
Thomas Clark, 
Thomas Foster 
^ Joseph Bartlett, > 
John Torrey, ) 
Willi^ji Crombie, 
Ephraim Spooner, 
Jonathan Diman, 
John Bishop, 
Lemuel Drew, 
William P. Ripley, 
Rosseter Cotton, 
Ichabod Morton, 



chosen in Ley den, 1620. 
I to about 1630. 



chosen about 



chosen 



■!. 



1630. 



1667. 
1686. 

1694. 

1716. 
1727. 

1745. 

1776. 
1784. 
1784. 
1797. 
1812. 
1813. 
1822. 
1831. 



APPENDIX. 



The foregoing pages will be found to contain a just display ^ 
of the character sustained by our puritan fathers, and show that 
their sacrifices, their disinterested patriotism, their exemplary- 
integrity, and their reverence tor a pure religion were without 
a parallel in the records of history. It was, with them, a pri- 
mary object to avoid all cause of war with the natives, but they 
were compelled in their own defence to a cruel warfare with 
Philip and his allies, and were in imminent danger of a total 
extermination, within the first half century of their settlement. 
The natives, from a jealousy of encroachments, became the ag- 
gressors by acts of enormities and crimes. The colonists ne^f^* 
possessed themselves of the Indian's land, without payino- a 
fair and full price for what they bought. (See page 133.) After 
the war, the Englisli, it is true, availed themselves of the right 
of conquest; but lands were allotted to the surviving Indians, 
who remained in the country, amply sufficient for their support. 
Should it be inquired, what is the character and prosperity of 
the descendants of the puritans; it may be replied, that every 
community having religion and justice for its basis will be pros- 
perous and happy. The state of society in the ancient town is, 
in common with the whole of the old colony of Plymouth, re-*^ 
markably peaceable, orderly, and happy. The names of our 
ancestors are embalmed in our bosoms, and are objects of con- 
secrated memory. 'Their religious and school institutions are 
deemed by all good men sufficiently important to be appreciated 
as their worth and character deserve. 

We venerate the memory of the pilgrim fathers for their re- 
ligion, their patriotism and their institutions. They were, it is 
true, deeply imbued with the principles of Calvin, and were, in 
some measure, tinctured with the spirit of bigotry. Liberal 
christians of the present day have abandoned many tenets, 
which our fathers conscientiously maintained, and are zealous 
advocates for the exercise of mutual charity and brotherly love, 
that heavenly grace that beams from the breast of the father of 
mercies, and which gives joy to good men and to angels. 

Few crimes or aggravated violations of law have been known 



300 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

in our limits. No native white inhabitant of this town has ever 
suffered death by the hand of the law, nor any one, it is be- 
lieved, in the Old Colony. Nor has there been any instance of 
duelling in our territories, since that in 1621, noticed in page 
thirty-eight. We conjure every citizen to hold to his integrity, 
and resolve sternly to resist the influence of the emissaries 
from the old world, who would gladly subvert our free institu- 
tions and enthral the minds of the rising generation in the dark 
clouds of corruption and ignorance. 

It has been the anxious desire of all nations in all ages of 
the world, that genealogies from their original foundations 
should be correctly recorded, and transmitted to future genera- 
tions. Posterity love to trace back their progenitors in an un- 
interrupted line to the earliest periods. In no instance do we 
recognize a people who have a more peculiar interest in the 
transactions of their ancestors than the descendants of the puri- 
tan fathers of New England; nor are the descendants of any 
people furnished with more abundant data for the purpose of 
tracing the founders of a nation. When the Saxons came over 
ihd settled in England, the British sirnames were emerged, and 
all record of the original inhabitants by their sirnames vanished 
from the page of history. But in our country the reverse of 
this is our happy destiny. By far the largest proportion of our 
sirnames are those which were precious to our puritan fathers, 
and ever will be to their posterity. The spreading branches of 
the genealogical tree from the stock of the pilgrims will ever 
command admiration and respect, and it would be exceedingly 
gratifying could we be able to delineate the descendants through 
their generations by family genealogies; but although so early 
as 1646, the court ordered that in each town a clerk should be 
appointed whose duty it should be to record all marriages, 
births and deaths, yet no one was appointed in this town till 
1679, and the records prior to that time were very imperfect. 

The following are the names found among the first comers 
and early settlers in this town. Those with this * mark died 
the first winter. 

Adams, 

Alden, 

*Allerton, 

Atherton, 

Atwood, 

Bangs, 

Bassett, 

Beale, 



Blossom, 

Bompasse, (Bumpus) 

Carver, 

Chauncey, 

*Chilton, 

*Clarke, 

Conor, 

Cooke, 



APPENDIX. 



301 



Beames, 

Billington, 

Bradford, 

Brewster, 

Briggs, 

Brown, 

Cooper, 

Cotton, 

Cudworth, 

Cushman, 

Crackston, 

De La Noye, (Delano,) 

Doane, 

Dotey, (Doten) 

Dunham, 

Eaton, 

^English, 

Faunce, 

Fallowell, 

FJavell, 

*Fletcher, 

Foord, 

Finney, 

Fuller, 

Gardener, 

*Goodman, 

Goram, (Gorham,) 

Gray, 

Hanbuvy, 

Harlow, 

Hatherly, 

Hicks,*— 

Hilton, 

Hinkley, 

Hopkins, 

Howland, 

Higgins, 

Jackson, 

Jenney, 

Kempton, 

Knowles, 

Latham, 

^Margeson, 



Masterson, 
^Maiton, 
Morgan, 
Morton, 
*Mullins, 
Deane, 
Nelson, 

Nicolas, (Nicholas) 
Paddy, 
Palmer, 
Pitts, 
Paddock, 
Prence, (Prince) 
^Priest, 
Rayner, 
Rogers, 
Robinson, 
Standish, 
Starie, (Stacy) 
Sparrow, 
Smalley, 
Snow, 

Southworth, 
Samson, 

Simonson, (Simmons) 
Steward, (Stewart) 
Smith, 
ShurLlefF, 
Sprague,-^ 
Soul, 
*Tilley, 
Tench, 
'^Turner, 
*Tinker, 
Thomas, 
Warren, 
Winslow, 
Watson, 
^White, 
Wrioht, 
W^illet, 
*Williams. 



26 



302 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

Free Schools. — Our ancestors were well apprised of the great 
importance of school establishments for the education of the 
rising generation. So early as February 11th, 1635, we find 
among the court orders the following: ' Benjamin Eaton,, with 
his mother's consent, is put to Bridget Fuller, bemg to keep him 
at school two years, and employ him after in such service as she 
saw good, and heshall be fit for.' We find no further notice of 
this subject tillJune, 1662, when the court recommended to the 
consideration of the several towns, some preparations for 
schools; and in 1663, it was enacted by the court, 'That the 
several townships in the jurisdiction, ought to take into their 
serious consideration, that there may be a school-master in each 
town to teach the children in reading and writing.' In 1668, 
John Morton, who was a nephew of the Secretary, offered to 
teach children and youth of the town to read and write and cast 
accounts, on reasonable considerations. In 1670, a grant was 
made by the government of the colony, ' of all such profits as 
might or should annually accrue to the colony, from time to time, 
for fishing with nets or seines at Cape Cod, for mackerel, bass, 
or herrings, to be improved for and towards a free school in 
some town of this jurisdiction, provided a beginning were made 
within one year of the grant.' And in August, 1671, John 
Morton appeared at town-meeting, and renewed his proposal to 
erect and keep a town school, which was accepted. In the 
following year, the court declared the school in Plymouth enti- 
tled to the profits of the Cape Cod fishery, and appointed Thomas 
Hinckley, steward of said school, to take charge of its funds. 
In the same year, 1672, the profits and benefits of the Agawam 
and Sippican lands were appropriated by the town to the main- 
tenance of the Free School, then began in town, and not to be 
estranged from that end.' This was the first Free School or- 
dained by law in New England. We are not, however, un- 
mindful of a prior law in the neighboring colony of Massachu- 
setts, in 1647, for a similar purpose. But that law did not in re- 
ality ordain Free Schools, but a reasonable tax on the scholars 
was left to the direction of the towns. Nearly all the schools in 
that colony in 1671, and much later, were supported in part by 
such a tax; but there can be no doubt that in Boston a free 
school actually existed before this period, or perhaps one or two 
elsewhere in the jurisdiction. Though Mr. Morton's school in 
Plymouth was strictly entitled by the terms of the colony grant 
to its benefits, yet, as he only taught ' to read and write, and 
cast accounts,' it failed, perhaps, under his instruction, to meet 
the expectations of the country. In the year last mentioned, 
1672, a Mr. Corlet, a graduate of Cambridge, was the instruc- 



APPENDIX. 



303 



tor. It would seem that the higher standard of school learning, 
under Mr. Corlet, did not please the town much better than the 
plain education by Mr. Morton, had satisfied the government. 
Two years after, viz., in 1674, the town, as if apprehensive that 
the Latin and Greek were encroaching on the more useful de- 
partments after limiting the grant, which it had made of the Aga- 
wam and Sippican lands, to such only as had purchased of the In- 
dians previous thereto, entered these directions, ' that their chil- 
dren be instructed in reading, when they are entered, in the 
Bible: and also that they be taught to write and cypher, beside 
that which the country, (that is, the colonial government) ex- 
pects from said school.' Notice is again taken of the Free 
School, by the general court in 1675, and the Cape Fishery 
money appropriated to it. The profits of this fishery amounted 
to from 30 to 40 pounds per ann. In 1677, notwithstanding 
the distressing war with King Philip, the court ordered that, 'In 
whatever township in this government, consisting of 50 families 
or upwards, any meet man shall be obtained to teach a gram- 
mar school, such township shall allow at least twelve pounds, to 
be raised by rate on all the inhabitants of said town: and those 
that have the more immediate benefit thereof, with what others 
shall voluntarily give, shall make up the residue necessary to 
maintain the same, and that the profits arising from the Cape 
Fishery, heretofore ordered to maintain a grammar school in 
this colony, be distributed to such towns as have such grammar 
schools, not exceeding five pounds per ann. to any town. And 
further this court orders, that every such town as consists of 
seventy families and upwards, and hath not a grammar school 
therein, shall allow and pay unto the next town that hath a 
grammar school, the sum of five pounds to be levied on the in- 
habitants by rate, and gathered by the constables of such towns, 
by warrant from any magistrate of this jurisdiction.' 

In 1669, it was ordered that the selectmen procure a school 
master for the town, and settle him as near the centre as may 
be convenient, and that every scholar who comes to write or 
cypher or to learn Latin, shall pay three pence per week; if to 
read only, then to pay three half pence per week, and what re- 
mains due to the school to be levied by rate on the inhabitants. 
1703, at town meeting it was voted, that there shall be a gram-' 
mar school master provided for the use of the town, and that 
there shall be a rate on the inhabitants to defray the charges 
thereof. In September, 1705, the town voted to pay £30 per 
year for a school master for the term of seven years, provided 
that said schoolmaster be settled within 40 rods of the old meet- 
ing house, and fhat the town pay £20 per year during the said 



304 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

seven years, and alt children sent to said school, excepting the 
children of those who have subscribed for the support of the 
teacher, that live within one mile of said school, pay four pence 
a week for instruction in Latin, writing, or cyphering, and two 
pence a week for reading, and all those that are without the 
bounds of one mile and within the bounds of two miles to pay 
two pence per week for Latin, writing, or cyphering, and one 
penny for reading, excepting the children of such as through 
poverty are unable to pay, who are to go free, and all fines that 
are by the law devoted towards the support of a school and the 
money to be paid per v/eek as above said to be improved to- 
ward paying the tov^n's part of the said £"20, and the subscribers 
to have no benefit thereby. 

In 1712, September 8, the town voted that for the four years 
next ensuing, the use or interest of all the money voted by the 
town for the u-se of a school forever in said town, for the lands 
within the mile and half already sold or yet to be sold, shall be, 
by the town treasurer, yearly paid to Captain James Warren, 
Mr. Nathaniel Tliomas, and Mr. John Murdock, provided they 
shall keep or cause to be kept, in the middle of said town, in 
the school house, a good grammar school, according to law for 
the said four years, voted also to pay or cause to be paid yearly, 
during the said four years, ten pounds per annum unto said 
Warren, Thomas, and Murdock, to be raised by rate on said 
inhabitants, and all fines which by law shall belong to said 
school within four years, shall be paid to said Warren, Thomas 
and Murdock; and it was also voted that during the said four 
years the school grant to be paid to the persons above named 
according to the vote, September 17th, 1705, and the said three 
persons, empowered by the town to collect and gather the same 
and to have the benefit of it. 

1714. — It was voted to allow £20 to the north end and £'20 
to the south end of the town to build school houses. 

1716. — It was voted at town meeting on the 22d of October, 
that there shall be three free schools set up in the town, one at 
each end to teach reading and writing, and one in the middle 
of the town to be a grammar school, and that there be a com- 
mittee chosen to provide suitable persons to keep the said 
schools, and the interest of the money, of what lands are sold 
within the mile and half, to go towards the support of the schools 
and the town will make up the deficiency, and the school to be 
continued five years. The committee was composed of Major 
Bradford, Isaac Lothrop, Captain Benjamin Warren, and Mr. 
Abiel ShurtlefF. 1724. — At town meeting February 15, there 
was a long and warn^ debate whether one school or three 



APPENDIX. 305 

should be maintained in town, such was the confusion and tu- 
mult that the vote could not be determined by holding up hands, 
and it was agreed that the voters should retire from the house 
and then pass singly by the clerk and declare their vote; there 
was a majority for one school, but it was found advisable to ad- 
journ the meeting. At the adjournment it was voted that the 
grammar school in which is also taught writing, reading and 
arithmetic, be kept in the centre of the town near the meeting 
house, and that the ends of the town be allowed women^ 
schools or any other, so far as their proportion of taxes will g^ 
This dissention respecting the location of schools facilitated the 
separation of Jones's River parish from Plymouth, and its in- 
corporation into a town called Kingston. 

1746. — The town voted that two more schools should be es- 
tablished in town, one on the training green, and one at Eel 
river, for the benefit of the inhabitants there, and at Monument 
Ponds, and committees were chosen to make the necessary ar- 
rangements, and to supply the schools with able teachers, and 
to erect a new school house on the training green. 

The great importance of free schools has been fully appreci- 
ated by the present generation, who have been as well disposed 
as their progenitors, and better able to promote them, and the 
school has been kept under a regular succession of granmiar 
masters to the present day. 

In 1803, l!220 dollars were voted for all the schools in town 
and in 1830 and for several preceding years. $2625 have been 
appropriated to their support, and in 1832, $3525. There are 
fifteen districts among which the sum of two thousand dollars is 
annually distributed, according to the number of children in 
each between the ages of six and sixteen; which number in the 
whole, by a census taken in 1829, amounted to 1028. The 
salary for our grammar school master is $600 per ann. 

In 1795, a school for girls was instituted by the town, to be 
kept in the summer months, at intervals of the town schools. 
The central school district was separated in 1826, at which time 
the town, or high school, as it has been since denominated, 
was placed on an improved footing, and a quarterly examina- 
tion had for admission to it from all the districts. 

The first school house was built by subscription in 1705, and 
stood a little south of the meeting house of the first parish; in 
the next year however, it was purchased by the town. The 
present school house on the northerly side of the meeting house 
was built in 1765. 

Our Sunday school first commenced in the third parish in the 
year 1818. In the first parish the school was established in 
26* 



306 



HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 



V 



Twin sons of Rev. I>r. Chauncy. 



1827. The number of children who have been members of the 
school belonging to the first parish has been from one hundred 
and sixty to two hundred. Great praise is due to our sabbath 
school teachers for their zeal and faithfulness in imparting 
christian knowledge to our youth. The whole number of at- 
tendants during 1831, was about four hundred, males and fe- 
males. It is indeed to be desired that all our youth may enjoy 
the benefit of this inestimable institution that their earliest im- 
pression may be the nature of the gospel, and the moral and 
religious duties which it enjoins. 

The following is a list of those born in Plymouth, who were 
graduates at our Colleges. Those marked thus * are deceased, 
those in italics have been ordained to the work of the ministry. 

-<«1642 ^JSTaihaniel BreiosteTj 

1650 *Isaac Allerton, 

1661 *JVathaniel Chauncy, } 
*Elnathan Chauncy, ^ 

1663 *John Rayner, 

1685 ^Roland Cotton, 

1698 *Josiah Cotton, 

1701 *T/ieopJiilus Cotton, 

1707 * William Shurtleff, 

1 726 *Isaac Lothrop, 

1730 ^JoJin Cotton, 

1735 *John Watson, 

1745 *James Warren, 

1745 *Thomas Foster, 

1751 * William Watson, 

1753 *Pelham Winslow, 

1756 *Bartlett Le Baron, 

]756 *Nathaniel Lothrop, 

1759 *Mid Leonard, S. T. D. Nassau Hall 

1765 *Edward Winslow, 

1766 *John Watson, 
1768 *Thomas Leonard, 
1771 Perez Morton, 

1771 *Jacob Bacon, 

1772 *Joshua Thomas, 
1776 *James Warren, . 

1781 John Davis. LL. D. Dartmouth, 

1782 *Chandler Bobbins, 
1782 *Joseph Bartlett, 

1782 *Charles Warren, 

1783 Barnabas Hedge^ 



APPEND53L 307 

1783 William Jackson, 

1789 Zaccheus Bartlett/ 

1790 * Joseph f'Varren, 
1793 Ward Cotton, 
1796 nVendell Davis, 

1798 Andrew Croswell, 

1793 * Samuel Prince Rohhins,, • 

1799 Abner Bartlett, y^ 
1802 * Caleb Holmes, 

1804 Nathaniel Morton Davis^ i 

1806 John Boies Thomas, 

1807 *Ezra Shaw Goodwin, 

1807 William Thomas, 

1808 Charles Cotton, 
1808 *John Torrey, 

1810 *John Watson Davis, 

1810 John Cotton, 

1810 Rufus Bacony 

1813 Winslow Warren, 

1814 *Isaac Eames Cobb, 

1815 Pelham Winslow Warren^ 

1817 Charles Henry Warren, 

1818 Sidney Bartlett, V 
1820 Isaac Lothrop Hedge, 
1820 Nathaniel Russell, 
1823 James Augustus Kendall, 

1826 Hersey Bradford Goodwin,. 

1827 George Bartlett, /^ 
1827 Andrew Leach Rirssell, 

1831 *Francis James Russell, 

1832 Le Baron Russell, 

1833 Winslow Marston Watsoir. 

The following persons horn af Plymouth graduated at Yak College. 

1768 Lemuel Le Baron, 
1826 William Harlow. 

At Amherst College.. 

^1830 Samuel S. Clark,. 
1832 Isaac Wetherell. 

^Physicians in Plymouth from 1620, 
Those with this mark * died in Plymouth. 
■^♦Samuel Fuller, from 1620 to 1633. 
Mathew Fuller, from 1640 to 1652, died at BariKstable. 



303 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

^Francis Le Baron, from 1693 to 1704. 
*Thomas Little, from 1700 to 1712. 
*Lazariis Le Baron, from 1720 to 1773. 
"^Joseph Le Baron, to 1761. 
^Lazarus Le Baron, Jr. to 1784. 
^William Thomas, 1802. 
\f*Nathaniel Lothrop, M. D. 1828. 
^Stephen Marcy. 
*Isaac Barrows. 

*Caleb Boutell, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. 1819. 
Andrew Mackie, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. removed. 

Living in Phjmouth at present. 
James Thacher, M, D., M. M. S. Soc. relinquished practice. 
Rossetter Cotton, relinquished practice. 
Nathan Hayward, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. 
N/ Zaccheus Bartlett. 

Winslow Warren, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. 

Charles Cotton, M. D. 

Robert Capen. 

Hervey N. Preston, M. D., M. M. S. Soc. 

Lawyers in Plymouth. 



*ZabdieI Samson, 
Nathaniel M. Davis, 
John B. Thomas, 
William Thomas, 
John Thomas, 
Jacob H. Loud, 



^ *Nathaniel Clark, 
*James Hovey, 
James Otis, a short time, 
Pelham Winslow, 
*Joshu a Thomas, 
John Davis, 
*John D. Dunbar, | Gustavus Gilbert. 

Topography and Statistics. 
Census of the town at different periods. 
1764. — ^Dwelling houses, 256. Fami'ies 373. 
■>■ Persons including 77,negroes, and 48 Indians, 2246. 
In 1776, Whites oniy^2655. 

In 1733, including 35.ji«groes, 2380, number reduced by the 
war. 

^According to the U. S. census the number of the inhabitants of 
Plymouth — tvas 

2995. 
3524. 
- - - - 4228. 
4384. 
4751. 



In 


1791 


(( 


1800 


ti 


1810 


IC 


1820 


(( 


1830 



APPENDIX. 309 

Increase last ten years, 367, 8J per cent. 

In 1834, probable number, 5000. 

Number of dwelling houses in 1815, 409. 

Number in 1834, 570. 

Number of shops for retail of English and West India 
Goods, 40. 

Number of rateable polls in 1831, 1091. 

The annual sum appropriated for town expenses is from 
,$8000 to $10,000 besides labor on the roads. 

The central part of the town is compactly built, and house 
lots have doubled in price within a few years, and, for the 
space of half a mile north and south from the town square, very 
few building lots are unoccupied. Not a dwelling house of an- 
cient date or antique form now remains in town. Those re- 
cently erected are in the style of modern architecture, and in 
this respect our improvements have been increasing of late 
years more rapidly than ever before. The largest proportion 
of our buildings are painted of a light color, and being furnish- 
ed with Venitian blinds, exhibit an air of neatness and ele- 
gance. Numerous strangers attracted by the antiquity of the 
place and relics of the Pilgrims, take pleasure in visiting us in 
the summer season, and never depart witliout the pleasing im- 
pression that our village will compare with any in New England, 
and that the rock which received the first tread, and the hill 
which enshrines the ashes of our pilgrim fathers should always 
receive the sacred homage of their posterity; and what is to our 
honor strangers uniformly express tbemselves gratified with the 
marked attention and hospitality which they receive from our 
inhabitants. The congregational meeting house erected by the 
first parish in 1831, is on the plan of European architecture, 
and is the most magnificent edifice in the old colony of Ply- 
mouth. The County Court House in our Court square was 
erected in 1820. It is allowed to be an elegant edifice of brick, 
and in point of symmetry and just proportion, is in perfect keep- 
ing with the best models of modern architecture. On the low- 
er floor is an apartment for each of the offices of clerk of the 
courts, the register of deeds and of probate, and also a jury 
room. Above, there is an elegant court-chamber, a jury-room, 
a law library apartment, and two jury-rooms behind the gallery. 

The jail was also erected in 1820. It is of unwrought stone, 
except the front which is wrought, and is in all respects adapted 
to the purpose for which it was designed. The house for the 
jail-keeper is of wood, and is a handsome and commodious 
building. The old court house standing in the town square 
was purchased. by the town and converted into a town house, 



310 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

'and we have hvo handsome school houses in the central district. 
Our other public buildings are eight houses for Divine worship, 
(including the one above mentioned) where 30 years ago two 
were found sufficient. The busy workings of sectarianism have 
created a singular passion for multiplying meeting houses, as 
though religion requires one for every chapter in the bible, and 
our religious societies are so minutely divided that our ministers 
receive but a slender support.* 

Monumental Edifice or Pilgrim Hall. — For a particular de- 
scription of this edifice the reader is referred to page 244. 
For the want of funds the front has not hitherto been adorned 
with the Doric portico, according to the original design. It is 
highly gratifying that the sum required, in addition to the late 
Dr. Lothrop's donation, for that very desirable purpose, has 
recently been obtained by subscription, and a handsome portico, 
was in 1834, erected, 8 ieet wide in front, and supported by six 
pillars of wood 16 feet high. The whole building has been re- 
paired and the hall finished in handsome style. 

The following streets and squares received their designations 
in 1823. 

Ley den Street, is that which was laid out in 1620, being the 
first street ever opened in Plymouth. It extends from the town 
square to Water street. 

Market Street, commences at the town house on the westerly 
side, and BramhalTs corner, so termed, on the east side, and 
extends south only to the stone arch bridge. 

Summer Street, extends south westerly from Market street, 
to the fork of roads beyond the rolling mill. 

Spring Street, is in the avenue extending northerly from Sum- 
mer street to the Burial Hill. It was called Spring Line by 
the first planters, as it led from their Fort Hill to a well known 
spring near the upper corn mill. 

High Street extends southwesterly from Market street, over 
rising ground, crossing Spring street, to Tribble's corner on the 
east side, and Bartlett's corner on the west side. 

Pleasant Street extends from the stone arch bridge, over the 
hill known by the name of Watson's Hill, to the training Green. 

Ring^s Lane is the avenue anciently known by that name 

*' There is no making christians of sectarians. You may make 
a thousand sectarians sooner than one christian. You may make 
proselytes, and convert to and from every sect in existence, ^ou will 
not brintr yodr converts one stop nearer to the religion whose doc- 
trine is love, for exclusion is in their mouths and supremacy in their 
hearts, and these are the essence of sectarianism, call it by what 
denomination you will.' 



APPENDIX. 311 

leading from Summer street, and crossing Little Brook to the 
termination of High street. 

Mill Lane is the avenue from the lower corn mill to Summer 
street. 

Sandwich Street is the ancient street on the south side of the 
town brook, extending southwesterly from the stone arch bridge 
by Training Green to Wellingsly brook. This is the post road 
to Cape Cod. 

JYorth Street begins at Warren's corner on the south side, and 
Dr. Cotton's corner on the north side, and ends at Water street. 

Water Street commences at the termination of North street, 
and extends southerly by the head of the wharves, across the 
lower bridge, and ends at its junction with Sandwich street. 

Middle Street, formerly known by the title of King's street, 
leads from Main street to Cole's Hill. 

Main Street begins at Hedge's corner on the east side, and 
at Wethrell's corner on the west side, and extends north-north- 
west by the head of North street to Cotton's corner. 

Court Street begins at Cotton's corner and extends north 
westerly to Wood's lane. The elm trees on the west side of 
this street were planted in 1830. 

School Street is the avenue which extends northerly from the 
first meeting-house, by the head of the gardens, to the new 
Court-house. 

J^orth Alley extends northerly from Middle street to North 
street. 

South Alleij is the opposite alley leading from Middle street 
to Leyden street. 

A new street was laid out in 1834, beginning at the house of 
Mrs. Nicolson, and running by the north side of the Court- 
house, south-westerly, til) it enters Summer street. On the 
north side of this street, on elevated ground, is a dwelling house 
erected the same year by Mr. Charles Sever, lately deceased, 
being the first house erected on that street. 

Training Green is a handsome square on the south side of the 
town brook, laid out many years since by the town in perpetuity 
for the convenience of training companies. 

Town Square is a handsome public square at the head of 
Leyden street, directly in front of the meeting-house of the first 
parish, having the old court-house, (now town-house,) on the 
south, and the dwelling house and garden of Mr. Brigham Rus- 
sell, formerly owned and occupied by Capt. Thomas Davis, de- 
ceased, on the north side. This square has a gradual descent 
into Leyden street, and unites with Water street, near the spot 
where the pilgrims spent the first winter. The square is orna- 



312 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 

mented by six majestic elm trees, the planting of which the 
author witnessed in 1784, being brought from Portsmouth, by 
Capt. Thomas Davis. The largest in 1834, measured in cir- 
cumference nine feet, averaging about two inches annual 
growth since first planted. 

Court Square, formerly called Training Green, is in front of 
the new court-house, and Mrs. Nicolson's boarding house. The 
elm trees in that square were planted in May, 1832. 

Agriculture. — In the general view the land in this town is 
hilly, barren, and sandy; but a border of considerable extent 
on the sea-board having been well cultivated, consists of a rich, 
loamy soil, capable of.yielding any agricultural production. The 
art of agriculture, however, has never been an object of study 
and consideration by the inhabitants of the town, — tiie pur- 
suits of commerce and navigation being more congenial to their 
habits and taste than the labors of husbandry, especially on a 
soil not sufficiently fertile to encourage their efforts. There 
are, nevertheless, locations near the shore, where we have seen 
fields of Indian corn, potatoes, rye, wheat, clover, and other 
cultivated grass, which would bear a comparison with the best 
farms in any part of the Old Colony. Instances have occurred 
of the produce of four tons of English hay per acre, and some 
of our fields have yielded summer wheat of excellent quality, 
at the rate of more than thirty bushels per acre; and a premi- 
um was awarded to one of our industrious farmers for the pro- 
duction of forty-three bushels of rye on one acre and seven 
rods. But these instances are stated as the maximum, and not 
the average. Our meadows generally will average from one 
and a half to two tons, and our corn land about twenty to thirty 
bushels per acre. The principal part of the corn and rye, and 
all the flour consumed in town, are imported from the Southern 
States, or from Boston. A considerable number of sheep are 
grazed in the woods and on the commons in summer, without 
expense to the owners. Orchards have not generally flourish- 
ed to much advantage in this town. Although the trees are re- 
markable for rapid growth and healthy aspect, it is seldom that 
they yield a corresponding abundance of fruit. The peach 
tree has so uniformly disappointed our expectations, that it 
would appear that our climate is uncongenial to its natur^. 
Our gardens in general are sufficiently productive for all the 
purposes of culinary and domestic consumption, andsome there 
are which exhibit the skill of the botanist and horticulturist. 
The vine has been recently introduced into our gardens, and 
there is no reason to doubt but that those who are disposed to 
bestow the requisite care and attention on its culture, will be 



APPENDIX. 313 

able to furnish their tables with the luxurious fruit in sufficient 
plenty, though it- is not to be expected or desired that the wine 
press will ever be in requisition among us. 

The ancient Warren farm, situated at Eel river, three miles 
south of our vilJage, has been, from the first settlement, in the 
possession of the Warren family, having descended from Rich- 
ard Warren, who came over in the Mayflower in 1620. This 
very valuable tract, consisting of abput four hundred acres, has, 
for a long time, suffered deterioration from wrong management 
and neglect. It is now in possession of John Thomas, Esq., who 
hascommenced its renovation. This gentleman, having acquired 
a knowledge, both theoretical and practical, of the modern mode 
of culture, has, with commendable enterprise and industry, ap- 
plied himself for two years past to improvement, in conformity 
with it. He has procured a stock of short-horned cattle, and 
is extending their breed. The sea shore furnishes rock-weed 
and kelp in abundance for compost manure, and he has greatly- 
enriched the meadow land, and prepared fifty acres for mowino- 
next season. The contiguity of this farm to the sea shore 
greatly enhances its value. 

There is another valuable farm, near the northern limits of 
the town, which, in 1665, was the seat of Governor Prince. 
This farm is bounded on its whole length by the sea bank, and 
consists of a variety of soils. It is now in the possession of 
Isaac L. Hedge, Esq., who, duly appreciating the value of a 
long neglected farm, is now engaged in meliorating its condition, 
in all respects according to modern improvements. He has, at 
great expense, erected a large convenient farm-house and out 
building, and stocked the place with English short-horn cattle. 
Plis barn and yard for swine are on a plan admirably adapted 
for the making compost manure, and the adjacent shore fur- 
nishes abundant materials for the purpose. There is in the 
centre of the farm an immense mass of clay for the manufac- 
ture of brick, which is conducted on a large scale. There is a 
beautiful brook passing through the farm and emptying into the 
sea. A considerable number of acres had never received the 
plough till the last summer, and the soil is excellent. Mr. 
Hedge has paid great attention to fruit trees and gardening, 
and he, with Mr. Thomas, is presenting excellent examples for 
imitation. 

Below Plymouth town, bordering on Sandwich and Wareham, 
is a district of country, nearly twenty miles square, that is chief- 
ly covered with wood, for the growth of which it is more val- 
uable than for any other purpose. This place has always been 
well stocked with deer, but they are thinned off annually by the 
27 



314 . HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

hunters. In January, 1831, a heavy snow, laying about three 
feet deep, so impeded their motions as to prove fatal to a large 
proportion of the stock. A number of people provided them- 
selves with snow-shoes, and pursued these beautiful animals, 
killing and capturing not less than two hundred. About forty 
were taken aHve. 

The pine commons of Wareham, Sandwich, and Plymouth, 
have ever been the favorite Jiaunt of the fallow deer, where this 
timid animal finds some sequestered delis, some secret recesses; 
a covert from his enemy, man, where 

'He bursts the thicket, p^lances ihroucfh glade. 
And plunges deep into the wildest woods.' 

About the year 1730, John Rider, of Plymouth, killed three 
deer at a shot. It was in the summer season, in a rye field; 
tradition designates the place on the South Pond road. It was 
^out of season by law to kill deer. The superior court, then in 
session, excused the man on the spot, it being in protection of 
his standing grain. This anecdote was related in England, by 
General John Winslow, in very high circles. It excited the 
smile of incredulity in that country, yet no event is more true. 

Tradition gives another instance equally extraordinary. A 
sachem named Samson, a mighty hunter in days of yore, seeing 
a number of deer drinking at a brook, killed so many at a shot, 
(too many it is said to be stated,) as acquired for him immortal 
fame among the huntsmen of the forest. 

The valuation in 1831 gives to Plymouth, woodland 11,662; 
unimproved, 19,463; unimprovable, 734 acres. 

Commerce and JVavigaiion of Plymouth, past and present. 

^ In 1670, a valuation states the £sh-i>oats thus: 
Four at £25 - - - £100 
Two at 18 - - - 36 

One at 12 - - - 12 



£148 
Three of these were owned by Edward Gray, a respectable 
merchant. 

From this period to 1770, the fisheries were gradually in- 
\; creasing, and in 1774, seventy-five fishing vessels, of about 45 
to 50 tons, navigated by seven or eight men each, were em- 
ployed in this town. Merchant vessels from 1755, to 1770, or 
1774, in the Liverpool trade: 



APPENDIX. 315 



Brigs 1 - - - Tons 130 
1 - - - 160 

1 - - - 180 



470 

One schooner, owned by Samuel A, Otis, Es,q., of Boston,/ 
made her outfits at Plymouth, for her voyages to Liverpool. 
Qiitwiaiid cargoes, liver oil, lumber, potash, then made at Mid- 
dleborough. ,Re,turu cargoes, salt, crates, freight for Boston. 
There may 'have been about twenty other vessels in the mer- 
chant service, whose outward cargoes were 6sh to Jamaica, 
some to the Mediterranean, and to the French Islands, Martinico 
and Guadaloupe. 

During the Revolutionary War, this commerce and these 
few vessels were chiefly annihilated, and at the peace of 1783,/" 
a few schooners only remained, but fishing vessels immediately 
increased in size and aggregate tonnage. 

Previous to the Revolution there was a considerable trade to 
Georgetown, South Carolina, and to Charleston. In the winter v/ 
m'any vessels which had been employed in fishing during the 
summer, took cargoes to North Carolina and Virginia, and re- 
turned in March with Indian corn, bacon, and live hogs, and^f 
this domestic trade still continued. 

' Previous to the last war with England, say from about 1808 
to 1811, the commerce of the United States had attained to a 
state of great prosperity, and its government and people reposed 
insecurity upon the advantages which had resulted from a neu-/ 
tral position.' Ship-building was constantly increasing, and 
large ships were in great demand for voyages of neutral freight. 
But the destructive embargo in 1808, and the war with Great 
Britain which followed, annihilated commerce, and blasted the 
fairest prospects and calculations of merchants. Several val- 
uable vessels belonging to this town were captured, others were 
perishing at the wharves, and our mechanics and seamen re-/ 
duced to a mortifying state of idleness. * 

The commerce of Plymouth, including Duxbury and Kings- 
ton, may be estimated from the following abstract of duties: 
Years. Duties. Years. Duties. 

1801 §21,754 1806 $98,224 

1802 19,223 1807 62.592 

1803 30,305 1808 21,994 

1804 34,417 1809 32,575 

1805 63,411 1810 29,224 

* It has been stated that we had in foreign trade, in 1811 an^ 
1812, 17 ships, 16 brigs, 40 schooners. Of these were taken before: 
Septemherj 1312, 1 ship, 1 brig, 4 schoaners* 



316 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

Duties paid by merchants and others in the iow7i of Plymouth, 
on importation at the port af Plymouth: 



l^ears. 


Duties. 


Years. 


Duties. 


1813 


$1,751 


1822 


$16,887 


1814 


,428 


1823 


' 12,706 


1815 


6,056 


1824 


5,053 


1816 


16,076 


1825 


8,151 


1817 


12,446 


1826 


4,842 


1818 


13,224 


1827 


13,119 


1819 


11,221 


1828 


25,732 


1820 


15,284 


1829 


31,237 


1821 


16,677 


1830 


8,383 






1831 


7,500 estimated. 



Enrolled tonnage belonging to the town of Plymouth, em- 
ployed in the coasting trade and fisheries, 3,949^ tons. 

Registered tonnage belonging to the town of Plymouth, 
5,070|| tons, including l,170|f tons occupied in the whale 
fishery. 

The following is the statement of the Cod and Mackerel fish- 
ery for the summer of 1831. 

Schooners in the Cod fishery 32, averaging 61 1| tons, em- 
ploying eight men each, and landing 19,165 quintals of fish. 

The number of barrels of Mackerel inspected this season 
is 2183. 

To the inhabitants of the town the Cod fishery is an object 
of primary importance. To some it has been a source of wealth, 
and to multitudes of a comfortable, cheerful living. 

The fishermen, in general, are respectable for good morals, 
correct habits, and civil deportment. The idea prevails with 
some of them that fishing employment is less honorable than 
foreign voyages; but let them consider that all honest enterprise 
and industry is honorable, and that fishing voyages are less liable 
to sickness, and less exposed to dangers and vicious example; 
and, moreover, that the employment prepares them for services 
in the navy, where they may have the honor of fighting the bat- 
tles of their country. It is much to the credit of our fishermen 
that when on the banks they carefully abstain from fishing on 
Sundays. 

Those vessels that are employed in the straits of Belle-isle 
fishery carry whale-boats, in which the fish are taken and kept 
through the summer. 

To fit a vessel of seventy tons, carrying eight men, for a 
fishing voyage of four months, it requires about one hundred 
hogsheads, or eight hundred bushels of salt; that from the Isle 



APPENDIX. 317 

of May is preferred; about twenty barrels of clam bait, thirty- 
five or forty barrels of water, twenty pounds of candles, two 
gallons of sperm oil; these articles are in the fisherman's 
phrase called great generals, and are paid for from the proceeds 
before any division of the profits is made. The stone ballast, 
and a suit of clothes for the men who salt the fish, are also in- 
. eluded in the great generals. After these articles are paid for, 
and the fish sold, the profits are divided in the proportion of 
three eighths to the owners, and five eights to the crew. If the 
crew furnish their own provisions, each man carries from thirty 
to fifty pounds of ship bread, from three to six gallons of mo- 
lasses, from fourteen to twenty-eight pounds of flour, some but- 
ter, lard, and vinegar, formerly two to six gallons of rum. At 
the present time, some vessels go entirely without ardent spir- 
its. Each man carries six codlines, thirty fathoms long, four 
lead weights of five pounds each, two dozen codhooks, one 
pair of large boots reaching above the knees, and a piece of 
leather or oil-cloth to defend his breast from the wet. A few 
other articles, called small generals, are paid for equally by 
each man, as two cords of wood, a barrel of beef, one bushel 
of beans, twenty bushels of potatoes, three bushels of Indian 
or rye meal. It is customary for the owners to put on board two 
or more spare anchors and forty fathoms of cable. 

The fish are brought home in the salt, and after being washed 
are spread on flakes to dry. 

Dun-fish are of a superior quality for the table, and are cured 
in such a manner as to give them a dun or brownish color. 
Fish for dunning are caught early in spring, and sometimes in 
February, at the Isle of Shoals. They are taken in deep wa- 
ter, split and slack salted, then laid in a pile for two or three 
months in a dark store, covered for the greatest part of the time 
with salt-bay, or eel-grass, and pressed with some weight. In 
April or May, they are opened and piled again as close as pos- 
sible in the same dark store till July or August, when they are 
fit for use. 

The amount of fish bounty paid to this town by the general 
government for the year 1831 is ^^17,501 47. 

Whale Fishery. There were a number of schooners and 
sloops employed in the whale fishery in this town previous to 
and immediately succeeding the war of the revolution; but 
there are now no vessels of that class so employed. In the year 
1821, a number of citizens associated themselves together and 
built a ship of three hundred and fifty tons for the purpose of 
fitting her for the Pacific ocean whaling, which they named the 
Mayfioiver,, in honor of the ship that brought our forefathers 
27 * 



318 HISTTORY OT PXYM0T7TB. 

here in 1620. The ship sailed in September, 1821, and after 
making three successful voyages, and landing rising six thou- 
sand barrels of oil, a part of the owners sold to some gentle- 
men of New Bedford, where she was transferred in 1831, and 
repaired, and sailed from that place in April, 183 i; a part is 
still owned in this place. In 1821 another company was form- 
ed, consisting principally of the same persons that built the 
Mayflower, and built another ship which they called the For- 
time, in memory of the second ship that came into these waters. 
This ship is of two hundred and eighty tons burthen, and has 
made three voyages, and landed about fifty-seven hundred bar- 
rels of oil, and is now on her fourth voyage. In 1830, the ship 
Arbella, of four hundred and four tons, and navigated by thir- 
ty-hve men, was sent out, and in 1831 the ship Levant, of 
three hundred and eighty-live tons, navigated also by thirty-five 
men, sailed for the Pacific Ocean in pursuit of sperm whales. 
The two last named ships are of the largest class, and fitted 
out in a thorough manner; and it is hoped they may meet with 
success to induce others of our fellow citizens to embark in this 
enterprise, which has brought wealth and prosperity to other 
towns, and is believed can be carried on here to as good advan- 
tage as from most other places. The three ships now employ- 
ed in the whale fishery amount in the aggregate to 1060 tons, 
navigated by ninety-two officers and seamen ; the produce of 
this fishery may be estimated at about two thousand barrels of 
sperm oil annually. Connected with this establishment are the 
manufacture of about three thousand oil casks, and about fif- 
teen hundred boxes, or of forty-five hundred pounds of sperm 
candles annually. A fourth ship has this year (1833) been 
fitted out. 

There are six sloops of about sixty tons each constantly em- 
ployed in coasting between this place and Boston. They aver- 
age about one trip a week in the summer season, and are 
usually from eight to sixteen hours in performing a passage. 
The distance being about fifty-five miles. A large piirt of their 
cargoes consists of the raw materials for the cotton, woollen, 
iron and cordage manufactories, as well as all kinds of goods 
and groceries for our stores and shops, and they carry back the 
various kinds of manufactures which are produced here. There 
are also tw^o schooners, of about ninety tons each, employed in 
carrying to and from Nantucket, New Bedford, and New York, 
articles connected with our manufacturing establishments. 
There are also three vessels employed in bringing lumber from 
the State of Maine. An attempt w^as made in the years 1828 
and 9, to run a steamboat between this place and Boston, but 



APPENDIX. 319 

it proved to be a losing concern, which was much regretted, as 
it was found to afford a mode of conveyance of great conven- 
ience to the inhabitants. 

Wharves. In 1695, we find the first mention of a wharf on 
our records. John Richard had liberty from the town to erect 
a wharf against his own warehouse leaving sufficient room for 
carts to pass along the shore. In 1698, the town granted to 
James Warren 30 feet square of land for a wharf, and to Abiel 
Shurtleff a lot of the same dimensions below Cole's hill for 
building a wharf^ leaving a cart-way between the bank and said 
land. August 28, 1727, a committee was chosen by the town 
to hear what those persons have to offer, that purpose to build 
a wharf at the lower end of the new street, but no further pro- 
ceedings on the subject are recorded. In 1734, the town sold 
several wharf lots extending from the top of Cole's hill into the 
bay reserving a street 30 feet wide to run parallel with the 
shore. These, lots were laid out 30 feet in width, and a piece 
of land was reserved below the street for a landing place for 
vessels, to remain open for a common dock for the town's use 
forever. This dock lies at the bottom of north street, between 
the long wharf and Mr. Hedge's store. The first lot was sold 
to Isaac Lothrop, Esq. for 5 pounds and is adjoining the town 
dock; each purchaser of these lots were required to support 
the bank at the foot of Cole's hill. Other purchasers were 
Thomas Foster, Q,uintin Crymble, James Warren, John Mur- 
dock, Samuel Kempton, Josiah Finney, William Harlow. The 
lot called the shop lot, being the lot on which the shop of Dr. 
Francis Le Baron, deceased, then stood, was sold to Samuel 
Bartlett and Dr. Lazarus Le Baron. There are now nine 
wharves near the centre of the town, one of which extends nine 
hundred feet into the harbor, and is called Long wharf This 
was constructed in 1829, and is honorable to the enterprising 
proprietors. Having a plank flooring it affords a beautiful 
promenade, which is much frequented in summer by social par- 
ties who wish to enjoy a pleasant view and refreshing sea breeze. 
Besides these, there are three wharves on the south side of the 
harbor and one connected with the Cordage Factory at the north 
part of the town. On Water street, and the wharves which run 
from it, where most of the business connected with navigation 
is transacted, there are twenty-one stores, sixteen warehouses, 
and a sufficient number of mechanics and artists of various de- 
scriptions. There is an aqueduct in the town which supplies 
most of the families on the north side of the Town brook, at 
the rate of §5 annually for a single family, or ^8 for two fami- 
lies in one house. The water is brought in logs from Billing- 



320 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

ton Sea at the distance of about two miles. We have belong- 
ing to the town four fire-engines, well provided with hose and 
hydraulic pipes, and all the requisite appliances. We have 
also two large reservoirs connected with the aqueduct, affording 
an ample supply of water. The whole apparatus, with ladders 
and hooks are under the direction of men alert, and capable of 
the most efficient operation on any emergency which may occur. 

Ponds, Rive7'S and Brooks. The number of ponds within the 
limits of this tov/n is supposed to be more than two hundred. 

Billington Sea. This was formerly called Fresh Lake. It 
was discovered about the 1st of January, 1621, by Francis 
Billington, while mounted on a tree standing on a hill. It was 
in the midsi of a thick forest, and when seen at a distance, Bil- 
lington supposed it to be another sea. On the 8th of January, 
he went with one of the master's mates, to view the place. 
They found two lakes contiguous, separated by a narrow space; 
the largest is about six miles in circumference,. and is the far 
famed Billington Sea. It is about two miles south-west from 
town, and from it issues the Town brook. In this pond there 
are two small islands. The largest, containing about two acres, 
having been planted with apple trees, produces excellent fruit. 
This pond is well stocked with pickerel and perch. The ma- 
jestic eagle is frequently seen cowering over this pond, and has 
for ages built its nest in the branches of the trees, visiting the 
flats of the harbor at low tide in pursuit of fishes and birds. 
Loons, and beautiful wood-ducks produce their young in se- 
questered retreats about this pond, annually. 

The fallow deer, tenacious of its ancient place of rendezvous, 
continue to visit this pond for drink, and to browse on its mar- 
gin. For many years this beautiful pond was a favorite resort 
for social parties. A house was erected on the bank, a plea- 
sure boat was in the pond, and tea parties and fishing parties 
united in the happiest enjoyments. 

South Pond is situated four miles from town, — is a beautiful 
sheet of unruffled water, the bottom of pure white sand, with 
white and red perch playing in their native element. This 
pond has now become a place of fashionable resort for parties. 
There is no natural outlet: but about the year 1701, a water 
course was cut from it, about half a mile in length, crossing the 
road and uniting with the head waters of Eel river. This pro- 
ject was executed under the direction of Elder Faunce, with 
the view of attracting alewives into the pond; but it failed of 
success. 

Mu^Yloch^s Pond lies about half a mile from our village in the 
rear of burial hill. It is a deep round pond of about tsvo acres, 



APPENDIX. 321 

where ice is procured for ice-houses; and a small hrook issuing 
from it crosses the west road, and is called Little brook, or 
Prison brook, which unites with the Town brook. 

Half-waij Pond. This is ten miles southerly from our village. 
There is an island in this pond which formerly furnished a large 
supply of masts, and the road to it is still called the mast road. 

White Island Pond lies some distance north-westerly from 
this; it is large, covering about 600 acres and is on the line 
which divides Plymouth from Wareham. 

Great Herring Pond is about 15 miles from town, on the bor- 
ders of Sandwich. It is two miles in length, and has an Indian 
population in- its vicinity. Little Herring Pond is connected 
with it by a brook. The Leech gives name to one pond, though 
in most of them leeches are taken which answer all the purpos- 
es of the true medicinal leech. 

Long Pond is two miles long, situated on the ancient path to 
Sandwich of the first settlers, which is the shortest route by 
two miles. It is six miles from town, and is famous for large 
pickerel and perch. 

Clam Pudding Pond is seven miles south, on the Sandwich 
road. It was formerly the resting stage for travellers to and 
from Cape Cod, and the settlers were in practice of holdino- 
annual festivals on Clam Pudding at this pond. 

Crane Brook Ponds are the source of a brook passing into 
Carver south-westerly, on which are valuable farna:ces and 
mills, manufacturing cast iron. 

Scook, is the Indian name of a small pond near Manomet 
point, where are numerous rocks. 

Coatuit is the Indian name for Half-way Pond. 

Agawam is the nam.e of the brook flowing from Coatuit and 
passing into the sea at Wareham. It is a valuable stream, on 
which mills and forges are situated and alewives abound in 
their season. 

Toim Brook. This is the outlet from Billington Sea; it 
passes through town and empties into the harbor a little south/ 
of Forefather's Rock. It is of inesttfftable to the town, beino- 
the seat of manufactures of great importance which will be 
described under the head of manufactures. There is a tannery 
and two grist-mills on this stream. Before the town sold their 
privilege to this brook, alewives were so abundant on their way^ 
to Billington Sea that more than 800 barrels have been taken 
in one season. But the passing up of the herrrings was for 
many years a source of much trouble and perplexity by inter- 
rupting the operations of the mills and manufacturers, occasion- 
ing an entire suspension during several weeks annually, to the 



322 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

great damage of the proprietors and the town. It was from 
these considerations that, at a meeting of the inhabitants of the 
town in 1821, it was voted to convey to the owners of the mills 
situated on the town brook, all the town's right to the use of 
the water and the bed of the said brook, including the lower ' 
grist-mill, for the term of fifty years, on the condition that the 
N^ said owners of mills pay to the town §5000 in ten years with 
interest annually. According to the arrangement adopted by 
the town, the interest accruing on the purchase money is to be 
distributed, one third, or §100 annually, among such widows of 
the town as are not supported as paupers, and the remaining 
part,, or §200, to be distributed annually among the inhabitants 
of the town paying a poll tax, or poll taxes, in equal proportions 
as the selectmen of the town for the time being may direct. 
And when the principal sum of §5000 shall be paid, the select- 
men shall cause the same to be funded in such stock as in their 
opinion will best secure to the town the interest thereof for said 
purposes during said term of fifty years. 

Eel River. This originates in ponds and springs back of 
Eel River Village, crosses the post road to Sandwich, and emp- 
ties into the sea near Warren's farm. It is appropriately call- 
ed Eel river, from the abundance of eels which it yields to the 
support of the industrious poor. Perhaps it will not be extrav- 
agant to say that about 150 barrels are annually taken there. 

Wonkinqua Kiver takes its rise in this town, forms the boun- 
dary between it and Carver and runs about four miles to Ware- 
ham line, below which there are on this stream some of the 
largest iron works in the county, 

lied Brook seeks the sea at Buttermilk Bay, over it is a small 
bridge crossed by the road from Sandwich to Wareham. 

Willingshj Brook. This is about half a mile from our village, 
crossing the public road to Sandwich, So early as 1623, this 
place was recorded by the name of Hobb's Hole, from an inlet 
or cove under a cliff where small vessels and boats were shel- 
tered from storms. In 1637, we find the name of Willingsly 
on record for the same place. It is now a location for a cluster 
of about 24 houses, where there is some excellent land, and 
flakes for curing fish. Here was the seat of Secretary Morton; 
in this place he copied the church records, and wrote the Me- 
morial, and volumes of other records. 

Double Brook, or Shingle Brook, of the first settlers, runs 
northerly by the post-road to Sandwich, and unites with Eel 
river. A forge stands on it near the junction, Beaver Dam 
Brook is in the village of Manomet Ponds, and affords seats for 
several mills. Indian Brook is still further south, near the 



.J 



APPENDIX. 



323 



shore; it is small, bat abounds with trout. There are between 
this town and the bounds of Kingston, five small brooks or rivu-|| 
lets crossing the road; near the tl^rd, reckoning from town, 
lived Deacon Hurst, who erected the first tannery in Plymouth, 
about 1640. Near the fourth brook, was the seat of Governor 
Prince, being a farm given him by the General Court when he 
removed from Eastham in 1665, and was called Plain Dealing. 
This has since been known by the name of Lothrop's farm, now 
Hedge's farm. On this brook stands a grist-mill and a valuable 
cordage manufactory. 

Bridges. — There are in the town about 12 bridges. The stone 
arch bridge was erected over the Town brook in the year 1812, 
at Spring hill, precisely at the spot where the colonists had their 
first interview with Massasoit, in 1621. The hill where the 
sachem with his train of 60 men first appeared, was called 
Strawberry hill by the first planters, now Watson's hill. Tliere 
is another bridge of wood over the Town brook at the wharf, 
which for many years was the principal passage way, and was 
called the lower road. This bridge is now the property of the 
town, but is kept in repair by individuals, in consideration of 
some contiguous land granted to them by the town. Eel river 
bridge is well known to travellers, though the public road to 
Sandwich is now more westerly, and passes the cotton factory. 

Hills. — Pinnacle Hill is in the vicinity of South Pond. Sentry 
Hill and Indian Hill are on the sea shore of Manomet. Gallows 
Hill is on the south side of Wood's lane, and is the property of 
the heirs of Mr. Richard Holmes. Sparroiv^s Hill is two miles 
westerly, crossing the main road to Carver. Pauhofunnahuh , or 
Break heart Hill of the early settlers. Tliis is that remarkable 
sand hill ten miles on the road to Sandwich, which the first set- 
tlers had to pass on foot, when journeying to and from the Cape 
to attend the courts at Plymouth. The traveller now escapes 
that wearisome hill by taking the new oflfset road to the shore, 
at Mr. Joseph Harlow^s house. 

There are on the road to Sandwich, in the woods, two rocks 
called Sacrifice rocks. They are covered with sticks and stones, 
which have been accumulating for centuries. It was the con- 
stant practice among the aborigines, to throw a stone or stick 
on the rock in passing. The late Rev. Mr. Hawley, who spent 
many years among the natives at Marshpee, endeavored to learn 
from them the design of this singular rite, but could only con- 
jecture that it was an acknowledgment of an invisible Being, 
the unknown God whom this people worshipped. This pile was 
their altar. 
\^ Burying Hill Aormerly Fort Hill. Immediately in the rear of 



324 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

the town is a hill, rising one hundred and sixty-five feet above 
^he sea level, embracing about eight acres. On the summit of 
the south-west side, the pilgrims erected first some temporary de- 
fence; but, in 1675, on the approach of Philip's war, they erect- 
ed a strong fort, one hundred and fifty feet square, strongly pal- 
isaded, ten and a half feet high. No other place could have been 
so well chosen, either for discovering the ai)proach of savages, 
or for defending the town against their attacks. The settle- 
ment was rendered perfectly secure, and springs of water were 
at their command. The whole circuit of the fort is still distinct- 
, ly visible;* a watch-house was also built near the fort. 

\j The view presented from this eminence, embracing our har- 
bor and the shores of the bay for miles around, is not, perhaps, 
inferior to any in our country. Let the antiquarian come at full 
tide, and when the billows are calmed, and seat himself on this 
mount, that he may survey the incomparable landscape, and 
enjoy the interesting associations with which he will be inspired. 
Immediately beneath the hill lies the town in full view; and 
beyond this, the harbor and shipping. The harbor is a beauti- 

\ful expanse of water, bounded on the south by Manoraet Point, 
and near which commences a beach three miles in length, 
breasting the rolling billows of the bay, and serving as a barrier 
to the wharves; and on the north-east by a promontory extend- 
ing from Marshfield, called the Gurnet, on the point of which 
stands the light-house. 

These several points, together with the opposite shores, com- 
pletely enclose the harbor, having Clark's Island and Saquish 
in its bosom. Beyond these points opens the great bay of Mas- 
sachusetts, bounded at the southern extremity by the peninsula 
of Cape Cod, which is distinctly visible, and spreading bound- 
less to the north-east. On the north appears the flourishing 
village of Duxbury, shooting into the bay, and exhibiting a 
handsome conical hill, ever to be remembered as once the prop- 
erty and residence of the gallant Standish. Between Duxbury 
and Plymouth, is the harbor and pleasant village of Kingston. 
Having taken a survey of this magnificent group, so exceeding- 

^ ly endeared to the New England antiquarian, and enjoyed a 

"^ spiritual vision of the Mayflower, laden with men, women, and 

children, come as founders of a mighty nation, we are next led 

to view a scene of more solemn contemplation. The whole 

extent of the hill is covered with the symbols of mortality, the 

(} * On the l{lth._day of May, 1834, the author planted an elm tree 
jnear the centre of the old fort, which may serve to designate its site 
, to posterity. 



APPENDIX. 325 

sepulchres of our venerated fathers. We tread on the ashes of 
those to whom we are indebted, under Providence, for our most 
precious earthly enjoyments, all that is vakiable in life, much of 
principle and example which are consoling in death. With 
what solicitude do we search for a sepulchral stone bearing the , 
names of Carver, Bradford, and their glorious associates. It >/ 
excites some surprise that sixty years should have elapsed be- 
fore a grave-stone was erected to the memory of the deceased 
pilgrims; but it is probably to be ascribed to their poverty and 
want of artists. A considerable number of the oldest are of 
English slate-stone.. No stone of an earlier date than 1081 is / 
to be found in this enclosure, though it is by no means probable 
that this was the first interment here. It is to the memory of 
Edward Gray, a respectable merchant, Vvhose name frequently 
occurs in the old reco,jds. The inscription is, ' Here lies the 
body of Edward Gray, Gent., aged about fifty-two years, and 
departed this life the last of June, 1681.' Edward and Thomas 
Gray, brothers, came to Plymouth about the year 1643. Thomas 
it is said afterwards settled in Tiverton, or some say Connecti- 
cut. Edward married Sarah Winslow, daughter of John Wins- 
low; their children were Desire, Elizabeth, Sarah, and John. 
In December, 1665, he married for his second wife, Dorothy 
Lettice, by whom were born Edward, and five other children. 
The first Edward Gray is frequently mentioned in the old re- 
cords. He made his mark for his name, as was not uncommon 
in those days; by habits of industry and good management, 
however, he gained the character of a respectable merchant, 
and acquired an estate worth cf 1250 sterling, the largest estate v 
at that time in the colony. The second Edward, according to 
accounts received from Lewis Bradford, Esq., lived at Tiverton, 
Rhode Island. Thomas and Samuel lived at Little Compton, 
and also three daughters, two of whom married Coles, and the 
youngest married Caleb Loring, of Plympton, who is the an- 
cestor of theLorings in the north part of Plympton. Dorothy, 
the second wife of Edward Gray, married, when a widow, Na-v 
thaniel Clark, of Plymouth, for her second husband, but finally 
separated from him, and died in the family of her son-in-law, 
Caleb Loring, in May, 1728, aged more than eighty years. 
John Gray married Joanna Morton. Their children were Ann, 
who married Tinkham; Joanna married Ebenezer Fuller. Sam- 
uel married Patience Wadsworth. Mercy married Jabez Ful- 
ler. Samuel Gray, by Patience Wadsworth, had several chil- V 
dren; those who survived infancy are Mary, Samuel, and Wait. 
John Gray married Desire Cushman, January 26th, 1775. 
Their surviving children are John, born May 5th, 1777- Lewi^, 
23 



326 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

born May 3d, 1790. They lived in the old mansion house in 
Kingston. 

The following is the language of the Rev. Dr. Dvvight, after 
visiting our burying hill in October, 1800: ' Governor Carver 
was buried in the first burying ground, and is without a monu- 
ment. This is dishonorable to the citizens of Plymouth, but 
^ will, I hope, not long remain so. The true character of the an- 
\ cestors is becoming better understood by the people of New 
England, and their attention to the persons and facts mentioned 
in the early history of their country is continually increasing. 
The inhabitants of Plymouth, who, in this respect, hold the first 
station among their countrymen, will, I trust, feel the propriety 
of honoring with so becoming a tribute, the memory of a man 
to whom they are so greatly indebted. The remains of Gov- 
ernor Bradford were interred without a doubt in the old burying 
ground, near those of his son. * But 

' Not a stone \ 

Tells where he lies.' 

It is most grateful to our feelings that a sepulchral monument 

*The following are copied from some of the stones on our bury- 
ing hill : — 
--Ni Here lyes ye body of ye Honorable Major William Bradford, who 
expired February ye 20, 1703-4, aged 79 years. 

He lived long-, but was still doing good, 
And in his country's service lost much iDlood. 
After a life well spent he 's now at rest — 
His very name and memory is blest. 

•>j Here lyes ye body of Mr. Joseph Bradford, son to the late Honor- 
able William Bradford, Esq., governor of Plymouth Colony, who' 
departed this life July ye 20th, 1715, in the 85th year of his age. 

Here lyeth buried ye body of that precious servant of God, Mr. 
Thomas Cushman, who, after he had served his generation accord- 
ing to tiie will of God, and particularly the church of Plymouth, for 
many years in the office of ruling elder, fell asleep in Jesus, DeceQi- 
ber ye 10th, 1691, and in the 84th year of his age. 

Here lyes buried the body of Mr. Thomas Faunce, ruling elder of 
the First Church of Christ in Plymouth. Deceased February 27, 
An. Dom, 1745, in the 99th year of his age. 

The fathers, where are they ? 

Blessed are the dead who die in the Lord. 

Here lyes ye bodv of Mr. Thomas Clark, aged 98 years. Depart- I 
«d this life March 24th, 1697. 



for 



APPENDIX. 327 

is at length erected to the memory of Governor William Brad-v 
ford, under the direction of Alden Bradford, Esq., of Boston, a 
descendant of the fifth generation, and assisted by others of the 
descendants. * A neat monument was in May, 12l25, erected on 
the site long fully ascertained to be the deposite of the remains 
of the second Governor of Plymouth Colony. The monument 
consists of a solid block of granite, two and a half feet square 
and 18 inches thick, laid on a proper solid foundation. On the 
granite block is placed a white marble block 20 inches square 
and 10 inches thick. And on this a white marble shaft is placed, 
of the height of six feet, and of a pyramidal form, the base be- 
ing 15 inches, and the top about 8 inches; the whole monu- 
ment being 8 feet and a half in height from the ground, with an 
inscription on the shaft. 

The powderrhouse, on the north part of the hill, was built of 
brick in the year 1770; and the small mound in the form of a 
fyvt in the valley a little south-east of it, is said was built by 
Irs. Cotton's scholars in the time of Queen Ann'^ war. 

Cole's Hill. — This is a small square, on the sea bank, at the 
foot of Middle street. It is a pleasant spot, affording a fine 
ocean scenery. Here, too, we feel an impulse from ancestral 
recollections. On this hill, according to common tradition, 
were deposited the remains of those renowned pilgrims who fell 
a sacrifice during the perilous winter of 1620 — 1. About the 
year 1735, an enormous freshet rushed down Middle street, by 
which many of the graves of the fathers were laid bare, and 
their bones washed into the sea. 

A breast-work and platform were erected on this bank in 
1742. John Winslow, who at that time lived in town, had the 
direction of the work, and the selection of the spot. During 
the revolutionary war a battery was erected at the same place, 
while intrenchments were thrown up at a well-selected spot, for 
defence of the town; and a fort and garrison were established 
at the Gurnet, at the entrance of the harbor, by the United 
States. In the war with Great Britain, in the year 1814, an in- 
trenchment was again thrown up on Cole's hill for the defence 
of the town. 



* The following persons contributed to the sum for erecting the y 
monument : the lady of James De Wolf, of Bristol ; the lady of 
Lient. Gov. Collins, of Newport ; Hon. John Davis, of Boston ; Mr. 
LtaJBaron Bradford, of Plymouth ; Cjip.t.-Gershom Bradford, of Dux- 
biiry ; Wm. J. A. Bradford, Esq. ; Mr. Duncan Bradford, Mr. G^jorge 
Pa Bradford, and Ezra Weston, Jr. Esq., of Boston. 



328 HISfORY OF PLYMOUTH. 






Ptymouth Beach. — This commences at Eel river, and extend- 
ing three miles northerly, is a natural barrier to the wharves 
against the sweeping surges of the ocean. 

Originally, the beach consisted of sand hills and hollows, 
covered with beach grass, excepting about 80 rods in length, 
and 30 rods in breadth, which was a thick forest. The inner 
side of the beach was covered with plum and wild cherry-trees, 
and the swamp with large pitch pine and beech wood, with a 
large quantity of white grape-vine attached to the trees. In 
the centre of the hollow, was a spot about 50 feet square, which 
was a firm green sward, and shaded by four beach trees, from 
which were suspended numerous vines with clusters of grapes 
in their proper season. This was a pleasant resort for gentle- 
men and ladies, and was much frequented in the summer sea- 
son, as is well remembered by persons now living. The point of 
the beach extended to the spot where the stone pier now stands, 
and not far from it was a house of entertainment for marines, 
as the harbor was a famous anchorage, and sometimes near one 
hundred vessels were seen riding in the Cow Yard. This was 
the natural state of the beach till about 1770. Our ancestors 
were well aware of the importance of the beach as security to 
the harbor, and we find in 1703 a penalty of five shillings im- 
posed on any one who shall fell trees, or set fires on the beach. 
We find again in 1723 and 1726, committees chosen by the 
town to secure the beach from injury by cattle going at large, 
and who were enjoined as far as possible to prevent encroach- 
ments on said beach. In 1764, a viewing committee of the 
town reported <£20 sufficient for the repairs of two small breach- 
es near the woods. In December, 1778, a great storm in- 
creased these two breaches, after which a hedge fence was 
erected to accumulate the sand. In November, 1784, a tre- 
mendous gale from the east, accompanied by the highest tide 
ever known, carried away a part of the woods on the east side, 
and overflowed the valley and swamp, by which all the trees 
w^ere killed in about three years, except those on the high 
ground. The same year a committee from the town viewed 
the breaches, and reported that a wall of eighty feet in length 
and four feet high, would be competent to the repairs, with 
hedge fence in low places; and that it would require about one 
thousand tons of stone, and at the cost of £414. The committee 
also recommended the di^sins of a canal to turn the course of 
Eel river, that it may empty into the channel within side of the 
beach as formerly; the river having been diverted from its natu- 
ra course by some proprietors of meadows for their benefit, 
about 1750. It was the decided opinion of Mr.. John Peck, a 



APPENDIX. 329 

skilful marine architect, about the year 1779, that for the safety 
of the harbor, a canal to turn the river back to its natural chan- 
nel, was indispensably necessary. The judgment of such a man 
ought to have received immediate attention. But in the year 
1803, a committee of the town examined the ground, and esti- 
mated the expense of a canal at a sum from $600 to $800. 
The town did not adopt this measure, and such were the extra- 
ordinary inroads of the sea, that in 1805 and 1806, the beach 
was in such a ruinous condition that the tide swept over it, and 
boats actually crossed at the breaches; nor was it long before a 
channel was worn in one of the breaches nine feet deep, and 
vessels loaded with stone passed through. A promiscuous wall 
of stone was now erected, but was soon entirely demolished by 
the surges of the sea, as if composed of simple turf. 

Areviewing committee now Reported that a sea wall of two 
thousand feet, requiring thirty thousand tons of stone, costing 
$45,000, was found necessary. The town petitioned our legis- 
lature, from time to time, for assistance in repairing the beach. 
In 1785, a grant was obtained of £500, conditional, that the 
town would raise and apply the like sum; but, from inability, 
this was not complied with. In 1806, a township of land in the 
State of Maine was granted, on condition that the town raised 
and applied $5000 in two years, which was accepted, and the 
township of land was sold for $9,500. In 1812, a lottery to 
raise $16,000 was granted by the General Court, which sum 
was eventually realized, and applied as designed. Since that 
time, another township of land has been gi anted for the same 
purpose. A sum, amounting to more than $40,000, has been 
expended for repairs since the year 1806, without any assist- 
ance from the general government. But in the year 1824, the 
town preferred a petition to Congress for assistance, and the 
general government assumed to itself the future repairs; and 
in 1824 and 1825, made a grant of $43,566. In 1824, the 
repairs were conducted by Lieutenant Chase, of the Engineer 
department, who received the thanks of the town for his faith- 
ful and judicious performances. Tlie next year the repairs 
were, prosecuted under the supervision of Colonel Totten, of 
the corps of Engineers, assisted by the collector of the port. 

The method adopted for the repairs, is, by triangular frames 
of timber filled in with stones, around and over which the sand 
gathers and forms a new beach. In other places large bodies 
of brush are laid, which have produced the desired effect, accu- 
mulating sand into cliffs and helping the growth of beach grass. 
The frames employed are of three sizes, a part fourteen leet 
base, twelve feet rafters; twelve feet base, ten feet rafters; tea 
28 * 



330 HlStOUt OF ^LYMOTJTH. 

feet base, seven feet rafters. Th«se frames are morticed and 
tenoned together, and placed vertically in a line on the surface 
of the beach, and jfilied with stones. The largest size contains 
five tons, and the smallest three tons. The whole quantity of 
stones used from 1824 to 1831, is 14,997 tons. A wail has been 
erected to the extent of 450 feet, in the most substantial man- 
ner, and the works seem to have produced the desired efiect. 
As an indirect aid to the security of the beach, a canal half a mile 
in length and fifteen het wide, was cut by the town in the year 
1814, for the purpose of conducting Eel river to its native out- 
let within side of the beach, which has been found to be of 
very essential advantage. This outlet will require annual vi- 
gilance, and it is confided to posterity as a work of great impor- 
tance to the preservation of the harbor. The repairs of this 
beach which has so long engaged attention are now considered 
as complete, and with care and a little annual expense, ivill j^rob- 
ablij continue as a mound of defence for ages. 

The Gurnet is a peninsula, or point of high land originating 
from Marshfield, and extending about 7 miles into the bay. On 
its southern extremity is situated the light-house. It was first 
erected in 1768, by the then province, at the expense of £660 
17s. and in 1801, it was consumed by fire. The light-house 
now standing was erected by the United States, in 1803. It 
exhibits two lights, which are about 70 feet above the level 
of the sea. There is near the point a farm of rich soil which 
supports one family. 

Saquish is a head land joined to the Gurnet by a narrow 
neck, lies contiguous to Clark's Island, and contains 12 or 14 
acres. 

Clark's Island is the first land that received the footsteps of 
our fathers who formed the exploring party from Cape Cod. 
It received its name from Clark, the master's mate of the May- 
flower, who first took possession of it with the shallop, Decem- 
ber 8th, 1620. There is a tradition that Edward Dotey, a 
young man, attempted to be the first to leap on the island, but 
was severely checked for his forwardness, that Clark might 
first land and have the honor of giving name to the island, 
which it still retains. My authority for this tradition is Mr. Jo- 
seph Lucas, whose father was the great-grand son of Edward 
Dotey. The anecdote has been transmitted from father to son, 
so tenaciously that it need not be disputed. He also states, 
that Edward Dotey was one of the earliest settlers in that part 
of Plymouth which is now Carver, where he died at an advanc- 
ed age, and his estate there was inherited by his descendants 
of the same name till within a few vears. 



.^JfPIiNDlX. 331 

This island contains 86J acres, as appears by the following 
survey. ' By virtue of a vi^arrant from his excellency Sir Ed- 
ward Andros, knight, captain general and governor in chief of 
his majesty's territory and dominion of New England, bearing 
date, Boston, the 23d of February, 1687, — 1 have surveyed and 
laid out for Mr. Nathaniel Clark, a certain small island, being 
known by the name of Clark's Island, and is situated and lying 
in New Plymouth Bay, bearing from the meeting-house in Ply- 
mouth north by north-east, about three miles, and is bounded 
round with water and flats, and contains eighty-six acres and a 
quarter and three rods. Performed this 3d day of March, 1687. 

'Philip Wells, Surveyor.^ 

In Governor Hutchinson's history of Massachusetts, this is 
called one of the best islands of Massachusetts Bay. The 
growth of wood was chiefly red cedar, and was formerly an ar- 
ticle of sale at Boston, for gate posts. In 1690, Clark's Island 
was sold to Samuel Lucas, Elkanah Watson, and George Mor- 
ton. The family of the late John Watson, Esq. have been the 
proprietors of this island for half a century, and still reside on 
it. There is at present but one island in the harbor of Ply- 
mouth; that which was formerly called Brown's Island is only 
a shoal lying about half a mile east by north from Beach point. 
' This it is supposed was once upland, and there is a tradition, 
that stumps of trees have been seen here.' In Winthr(5p's 
Journal p. 87, it is said that in 1635, September 6th, * Two 
shallops, going, laden with goods, to Connecticut, were over- 
taken in the night with an easterly storm, and cast away upon 
Brown's Island, near the Gurnet's Nose, and the men all 
drowned. '^ 

Cow Yard. An anchorage in Plymouth harbor near Clark's 
Island. It takes its name from a cow whale, which once came 
into it and was caught, with her calf. This was formerly a fa- 
mous anchorage for fishermen. 

Salt House Beach is contiguous to Marshfield Beach, near 
Clark's Island. 

Hio-h Pines is a piece of salt meadow which lies back of 
Clark's Island. ' William Shurtleff* exchanges with the pre- 
cinct, the precinct give him ten acres of upland and meadow, 
and he conveys to them a piece of salt meadow, six acres more 
or less, at High Pines.' — Cminhj Records, b. v.fol. 113, 114. 

Sheep Pasture. At the commencement of the last century, 
the inhabitants considered it an object worthy of attention to en- 
courage the rearing of sheep on the town's land. Accordingly 
in May, 1702, a tract of three miles square was granted to a 



332 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 

number of individuals, for their improvement as a sheep pas- 
ture. This tract was within the bounds of Plymouth, Roches- 
ter, Plympton, Carver, and extending to Smelt Pond in Kingston. 

The plan which they adopted was to divide the property into 
322 shares, which were taken up by 16 persons. A house and 
folds were erected, and a shepherd was employed, who resided 
on the spot. Twenty acres were allowed for cultivation, and 
the sheep were to be folded on the land the first three summers, 
with the view of bringing it into grass. In the year 1704, the 
town passed a vote that the said land shall be, and remain to the 
persons therein named, according to the number of shares they 
have signed for, and to such others as shall join them, and to 
their heirs forever. The endeavors of the proprietors were at- 
tended with little success, and in the year 1712, they began to 
think of resigning the land back to the town, and in 1712, this 
was done, and the project altogether abandoned as impractica- 
ble. The number of sheep was about 360. In 1768, a propo- 
sition was made to revive this project as a town concern, but it 
was v.'isely rejected. Subsequently to 1784, this tract was sold 
at different times; the last 800 acres were disposed of in 1798. 

The Militia of the town. One company of Artillery, com- 
manded by Eleazer S. Bartlett. _ One do. Light Infantry, called 
the Standish Guards, commanded by John Bartlett, 3d. Two 
companies Infantry, called South and North. South company, 
commanded by George W. Bartlett. North company, by Asa 
Barrows, Jr. / 

The above are attached to the 1st Regiment, commanded by 
Col. Leander Lovell, and belong to the 1st Brigade, 5th Divi- 
sion. 

Manufactures. The Manufactures of Iron are various, and 
some of them extensive. On the stream called the Town brook 
are two forges, in which are made anchors, mill-cranks, plough- 
shares, sleiirh shoes, &c. Formerly shovels were made at these 
works, under the superintendence of Mr. Ames, whose manu- 
facture of the same article in Easton has since become so cel- 
ebrated. 

The rolling-mill and nail factory on the same stream have 
been in operation many years; the former was rebuilt in the 
year 1807, on the site of a slitting-mill for the manufacture of 
nail-rods, formerly the property of Martin Brimmer, Esq., of 
Boston. At this establishment are made about three tons of 
nails per day. Nearly all the nail machinery in this factory is 
the invention of Mr. Samuel Rogers, of East Bridgewater, 
who received large sums from the proprietors for his patents. 
There is one machine, lately invented and constructed by Mr. 



APPENDIX. 333 

Joseph Lucas, of this town, on a new principle, by which, 
while much of the manual labor is saved, a larger quantity of 
nails can be made in a given time than by any other machine. 
As a specimen of iis performance, it may be mentioned, that 
the produce of something less than five hours' work was one 
thousand and twenty-five pounds of lOd, or board nails, of the 
very best quality. Mr, David Bradford, of this town, is the in- 
ventor of another nail machine, considered equal if not supe- 
rior to the best of the old construction. 

Near the rolUng-mill, is an air furnace, occasionally used in 
casting machinery for the iron works. Here is also a furnace 
belongino- to the same establishment, for converting, bar iron 
into blistered steel. Thi'ty cords of wood are consumed in 
the process of baking, which requires from six to ten days. 
About eighteen tons are made in a batch. 

At Eel River is another rolling mill of more modern con- 
struction. It commenced operation in June, 1827, The head 
and fall of water in this privilege are about thirty feet, with an 
unfailing stream. The rolling-mill and nail factory connected 
with it are built of granite, in a very strong and durable man- 
ner; the former is eighty by fifty feet in the clear, and the lat- 
ter seventy-two by forty i^eet. 

The rolling-mill will manufacture the present year about 
seventeen hundred tons of iron into nail-rods, plates and hoops. 

Another nail factory, about one mile from these works, is 
supplied by them with plates; and on the same dam with it is a 
forge where bar-iron of superior tenacity is made from scraps. 
Below these, on the same stream, is a rivet factory, where may 
be seen a machine for making rivets, invented by Mr. Timothy 
Allen, another ingenious mechanic of Plymouth, and intended 
to supersede the ill-contrived tools at present used. It has 
been in successful operation one or two years, and fully an- 
swers the expectations of the inventor. 

It may not be amiss to include in this enumeration, a factory 
lately put in operation by Captain Samuel Bradford, for mak- 
ing staves, to be used for nail casks. By this machinery the 
staves are sawed from the log, jointed, and tapered into the 
precise form necessary to give the cask the required shape. 

Cotton Factories. The Cotton Factory on Town-brook wa 
erected in 1813; dimensions ninety-two feet by thirty-six, and 
is four stories, including basement and attic. It contains about 
sixteen hundred spindles and thirty-four looms, and manufac- 
tures from nine hundred to one thousand yards of cloth daily, 
all about three quarters of a yard wide, employing about fifty- 
four hands. 



334 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

The factory at Eel River was erected in 1812, and its di- 
mensions are ninety-two by thirty-six, and is six stories, includ- 
ing the basement and attic. Belonging to the same establish- 
ment and at the same dam, is a smaller building which contains 
spinning machinery also. 

There are about two thousand spindles in both, and about 
forty looms in operation. From eleven to twelve hundred yards 
of cloth are manufactured daily, part of which is three-fourths 
and part one yard wide. This factory gives employment to 
about sixty-four persons. The factory at Manomet Ponds con- 
tains about three hundred spindles, and manufactures about 50 
pounds of coarse warp per day, a considerable portion of which 
is colored, and made .into cod and mackerel lines, which are 
lately introduced into use, and bid fair to supersede those made 
of hemp altogether. These are twisted and laid by water in a 
small line-walk attached to the factory. There is also a small 
cotton factory on the forge stream at Eel River, which manu- 
factures coarse warps, and a very superior kind of wncking 
used for making sperm candles. There is at the forge dam at 
Eel River, a small nail factory, where about one thousand nails 
are made daily. 

Plymouth Cordage Company was incorporated in 1824. 
Their rope-walk situated in the north part of the town and near 
the Kingston line, is three stories high, capable of employing 
eighty hands and making five hundred tons of cordage per year. 
Their cordage is of a patent kind, in high repute and made by 
water power. 

There is another rope- walk in town, operating by water pow- 
er, but no statement of the extent of its operations could be 
procured. 

There is also in, town a twine and line manufactory, where 
eight tons of hemp are manufactured annually into twine and 
various kinds of line, which come to a profitable market. 

Ship building was formerly carried on to a considerable ex- 
tent in this town; many excellent vessels have been sent from 
our ship yards, but the business is now diminished on account 
of the scarcity of timber. In 1779, a packet ship was built in 
this town for Congress, by Mr. John Peck, who was at that 
time much celebrated for his skill as a marine architect. The 
ship was called the Mercury, and was commanded by Captain 
Simeon Sampson, and employed to carry public despatches to 
our ministers in France. The ship-yard was on the spot which 
is now the garden of Captain Lothrop Turner. 

JVeivs Papers. In the year 1785, Nathaniel Coverly, of Bos- 
ton, commenced the publication of a newspaper in town, en- 



APPENDIX. 335 

titled the Plymouth Journal, but from its limited circulation, 
and our nearness to the metropolis, it was discontinued after a 
{e\v months. In 1822, Mr. Allen Danforth commenced the Old 
Colony Memorial; which is published every Saturday. This 
paper is increasing in reputation and is well supported. Con- 
nected with the printing office is a newspaper reading room, 
where intelligence from various quarters is daily received, and 
is a pleasant resort for the reading gentlemen at their leisure 
hours. Under the same roof is a book-store and bindery, and 
a circulating library. May 17th, 1832, appeared the first num- 
ber of a weekly paper entitled the ^Pilgrim,'' established by 
Rev. F. Freeman, but in about one year it was discontinued 
for want of support. October 27, 1832, the first number of an 
anti-masonic newspaper was published in this town for the 
county of Plymouth. The imprint is We the People, and Old 
Colony Press, published once a week, by C. A. Hack and H, 
Seaver. Discontinued in 1834. 

February 16, 1833, commenced The Old Colony Democrat, 
a weekly paper which in May 1834, was removed to Middlebo- 
rough. 

There are three licensed public taverns in towns, all of which 
are commodious, and well, provided and attended; and there 
are two other taverns on the road to Sandwich. 

Mrs. Nicholson's boarding house, in court square, has long 
been established, and is known to the public for its excellent 
accommodations. 

The first regular stage commenced running from this town to / 
Boston in 1796. We have now a stage establishment equal to 
any in the country, running daily in various directions, and 
provided with excellent horses and careful and attentive driveip 
Although we can boast of no rail-road cars to facilitate con- 
veyance, our public roads are kept in fine order, and our fath- 
ers would say that our Stage Coaches are good enough for their 
posterity to travel the paths over which they themselves were 
satisfied to trudge on foot or to ride on the backs of bulls. 

The first post office establishment in this town was by our 
Provincial Congress, May 12, 1775. They established a mail 
route from Cambridge, through Plymouth and Sandwich to 
Falmouth, once a week. The Congress appointed William 
Watson, Esq., postmaster in this town, and Timothy Goodwin 
and Joseph Rowland, joint post riders. The following are the 
rates and duties for the postage of letters, &q., to be paid in 
lawful money. 

From any distance not exceeding 60 miles £0-0-54 



336 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

Upwards of 60 miles and not exceeding 100 8 

Upwards of 100 and not exceeding ^00 lOJ 

Upwards of 200 and not exceeding 300 1 - i 

Upwards of 300 and not exceeding 400 1 - 4 

Upwards of 400 and not exceeding 500 1 - 6J 

Upwards of 500 and not exceeding 600 1-9 

Upwards of 600 and not exceeding 700 2 - 

Upwards of 700 and not exceeding 800 2 -2J 

Upwards of 800 and not exceeding 900 2-5 

Upwards of 900 and not exceeding 1000 2-8 

The rate of postage is doubled for all double letters, trebled 
for all treble letters, and for every ounce weight, four times 
as much is to be charged as for a single letter. 

Plan of riding from Cambridge to Falmouth in Barnstable 
county: 

^ To set off from Cambridge every Monday noon, and leave 
his letters with William Watson, Esq., post-master at Plymouth 
Tuesday at four o'clock afternoon. To set off from Plymouth 
Wednesday morning 9 o'clock and leave his letters with Mr. 
Joseph Nye, 3d, post-master in Sandwich, Wednesday 2 o'clock 
afternoon; to set off" from Sandwich at 4 o'clock and leave his 
letters with Mr. Moses Swift, post-master at Falmouth, Thursday 
morning 8 o'clock. To set off on his return Thursday noon 
and reach Sandwich at 5 o'clock, and set off from thence at 6 
o'clock on Friday morning and reach Plymouth at noon; to set 
off from Plymouth Friday 4 o'clock afternoon and leave his let- 
ters with Mr. James Winthrop, post-master in Cambridge on 
Saturday evening. 

Watertown, June 1, 1776. 
|tWe have appointed Messrs. Goodwin and Howland, joint 
post riders from the post office at Cambridge to the post office 
at Falmouth, through Sandwich and back again, which they are 
to perform according to the foregoing plan. Above you have 
the rates of postage; you will make up your mails separately 
for every office in the colony, inclosing a ticket sealed, and de- 
liver it to the riders in due season, that they may be enabled to 
do their duty with punctuality; you are to be accountable to us 
according to the tenor of your bond, for all the money you re- 
ceive for postage deducting your service in your office twenty 
per cent. 

William Greenleaf, hy order. 

To William Watson, Esq., Post-Master at Plymouth.' 

Such has been the improvement in travelling since that period, 
that the mail is now transported in covered carriages from Bos- 



APPENDIX, • 337 

ton to Falmouth and returned in two days, and ov€r the same 
route three times a week. 

Alms House. In 1826, the town purchased a few acres of 
land well located, and erected a very commodious Ijrick house • 
and out houses, at the expense of from four to five thousand 
dollars, where the poor are well accommodated under the care 
of an overseer, and amply and comfortably provided for. The 
average number in the house is thirty-three, and the expense 
to the town for their support, overbalanqing their earnings, is 
about one thousand dollars annually. This sum includes the 
expense of a few individuals partly supported out of the house. 
Market. Our provision market affords an ample supply of 
the various substantial, the conveniences, and the luxuries of 
life, such as beef, pork, mutton, poultry, and sometimes veni- 
son. At our fish market we have cod, haddock, halibut, mack- 
erel, bass, tautog, lobsters, eels, alewives, and clams. Should 
any one complain for want of a dinner, he must be chargeable 
with inexcusable indolence, and probably with intemperance. 

Societies. Pilgrim Society. This society was established tX 
in 1.SL2Q, by the descendants of the first settlers at Plymouth, 
and such others as were desirous of perpetuating their princi- 
ples, and commemorating their virtues. The number of mem- 
bers of this society amounts to several hundred, and it is de- 
sirable that number should be increased. The terms of admis- 
sion are ten dollars, and those who duly appreciate the princi- 
ples of the institution and the characters of the puritan fathers, 
cannot fail to unite in this duty of filial piety, and contribute 
their aid to its support. An appropriate diploma, prepared by 
Mr. E&nniman, of Boston, has been, and is designed to be dis- / 
tributed among the members. The diploma is about 15 inches 
by 10, the upper part gives a view of Plymouth harbor, the 
beach, and island. Below is a sketch of Plymouth village, 
and surrounding objects, as now presented to view. The stated 
meetings of the society are held at Pilgrim Hall, on the 25d of 
December, and for the choice of officers, the last Monday in 
May. The officers of the present year, 1834, are, Ajden Brad- . 
&rd, president; Z, Bartlett, vice-president; Benjamin M. Wat- 
son, recording secretary; Pelham W. Warren, corresponding 
secretary; Isaac L. Hedge, treasurer; James Thachor, libra- 
rian and cabinet keeper. There are eleven trustees, and a 
committee of arrangements consisting of three. 

Temperance Society. The Plymouth County Temperance 

Society, have frequently held their meetings in this town, and 

Daniel Frost, Jr. Esq., being employed as agent for the countv, 

has on several eccasions during the past summer, addressed 

29 



338 HISTORY OP PLYMOUTH. 

from our pulpits large and respectable assemblies on the sub- 
ject of temperance. His addresses were received with uni- 
versal approbation, and his unceasing efforts in the temperance 
•cause, have been productive of such astonishing results, as to 
entitle him to the highest honor. By his influence, chiefly, 
more than 1000 names were inscribed here on the paper pledg- 
ing themselves to abstain from the use of ardent spirits, and to 
discourage the practice in others. A temperance society has- 
recently been formed in this town. 

The promotion of temperance has long been an object of so- 
licitude among most of the inhabitants of this town, and they 
have wisely attended to the awful desolations of intemperance, 
and in the great work of reformation which is now extending 
around us. Most decided is our opinion that this alarming evil 
is only to be suppressed by a general union in the means of en- 
tire abstinence from all ardent spirits, as a drink, or as an aux- 
iliary to labor. It is auspicious to our community, that it has 
pleased Heaven to bless us with the temperance reformation. 
It may be presumed that the consumption of ardent spirits is 
diminished not less than three fourths within the last seven 
years, and in the same diminished proportion is life sacrificed, 
health, happiness, and domestic comfort destroyed, and the 
character and morals of our fellow men impaired by the prac- 
tice of intemperance. Long may it be our happy condition 
that our temperance societies may meet with the co-operation 
of all classes of people in their efforts to improve the health of 
the community, to promote the industry and the means of living 
of individuals, to increase their self-respect and love of char- 
acter, and to give a new impulse to the domestic virtues in the 
private relations of life. 

Formerly there were tv.'o rum distilleries in this town, pro- 
ducing large quantities of New England rum, from which the 
neighboring towns were supplied with the fiery element, and 
\, considerable quantities were sent to the southern states annu- 
ally. One of these houses was located where Mr. Gale's long 
house now stands, and the other occupied the lot now vacant, 
adjoining the lot of Mr. Wilham Holmes. This was taken 
down in 1814, and we hope never to see another erected. 

It is a matter of gratulation that there is so great a combina- 
tion against intemperance throughout our country. It is truly 
honorable to all who enlist in this holy warfare; and may God 
grant that every effort, calculated to annihilate the practice of 
inebriation, may be crowned with success. 

The Old Colony Peace Society hold their meetings occasion- 
ally in this town. There is also a Debalmg Society in town. 



APPENDIX. 339 

The ladies have for about fifteen years sustained a Fragment 
Society, much to their honor, having afforded essential benefit 
and relief to many poor and destitute families, bestowing char- 
ity to the poor, and are friends to the friendless. 

Banks. The Plymouth Bank was incorporated June 23d, 
1804, capital $100,000 ; first president, was Hon. William 
Sever of Kingston, after him Hon. William Davis, at present, 
Barnabas Hedge, Esq. First Cashier, William Goodwin, at 
present, Nathaniel Goodwin. 

Plymouth Instituticn for Savings, president, Barnabas Hedge; 
treasurer, Allen Danforth, office at Plymouth Bank. Deposit 
day, first Tuesday of every month. Amount of deposits in 
1833, $100,000. 

Old Colony Bank, incorporated in February, 1832, capital 
$100,000; president, Jacob Covington; cashier, Ebenezer G. 
Parker. 



The following is a list of those gentlemen who have deliver- 
ed discourses in the town on the anniversary of the arrival of 
our Forefathers. Those marked with an asterisk, (*) have not 
been printed. 

1769, First celebration by Old Colony Club. 

1770, Second celebration by Old Colony Club. 

1771, Third celebration by Old Colony Club. 

1772, Rev. Chandler Bobbins— For Old Colony Club. 

1773, Rev. Charles Turner— For Old Colony Club. By 
the town and by the first parish. 

1774, Rev. Gad Hitchcock, Pembroke. 

1775, Rev. Samuel Baldwin, Hanover, 

1776, Rev. Sylvanus Conant, Middleborough, 

1777, Rev. Samuel West, Dartmouth. 

1778, Rev. Timothy Hilliard, Barnstable.* 

1779, Rev. W^illiam Shaw, Marshfield.* 

1780, Rev. Jonathan Moor, Rochester.* 

From this time the public observances of the day were suS' 
pended, till 

1794, Rev. Chandler Robbins, D. D. of Plymouth. 

1795, ^ 

1796, > Private Celebration. 

1797, ) 

1798, Dr, Zaccbeus Bartlett, Plymouth, Oration.* 



340 HISTORY OF PLYMOUTH. 

1799, The day came so near that appointed for the ordina- 
tion of Rev. Mr. Kendall, that k was not celebrated by a public 
discourse. 

1800, John Davis, Esq., Boston, Oration.* 

1801, Rev. John Allyn, D. D., Duxbury. 

1802, John Q,. Adams, Esq., Quincy, Oration. 

1803, Rev. John T. Kirkland, D. D., Boston.* 

1804, (Lord's Day) Rev. James Kendall, Plymouth.* 
^ 1805, Alden Bradford, Esq., Boston. 

1806, Rev. Abiel Holmes, D. D., Cambridge. 

1807, Rev. James Freeman, D. D., Boston.* 

1808, Rev. Thaddeus M. Harris, Dorchester. 

1809, Rev. Abiel Abbot, Beverly. 
1811, Rev. John Elliot, D. D., Boston. 
1815, Rev. James Flint, Bridgewater. 
1817, Rev. Horace Holley, Boston.* 
1318, Wendell Davis, Esq., Sandwich.* 
1819, Francis C. Gray, Esq., Boston. 

--J 1820, Daniel Webster, Esq., Boston, by Pilgrim Society. 

1824, Professor Edward Everett, Cambridge, by Pilgrim - 
Society. 

1831, Rev. John Brazer, Salem, by First Parish in Ply- 
mouth. 

The following anniversaries were commemorated by the third 
parish in Plymouth. 

1826, Rev. Richard S. Storrs, Braintree. 

1827, Rev. Lyman Beecher, D. D., Boston^ 

1828, Rev. Samuel Green, Boston. 

1829, Rev. Daniel Huntington, Bridgewater, 

1830, Rev. Benjamin Wisner, D. D., Boston. 
1331, Rev. John Codman, D. D., Dorchester. 

1832, Rev. Convers Francis of Watertown for the First 
Parish. 

Rev. Mr. Bigelow, of Rochester, for the third Parish. 
1833; Rev. Mr. Barrett of Boston, for the first Parish. 
N IB24, Rev. G. W. Blagden of Boston, for the Pilgrim Society. 



HYMNS, ODES, &c. 

Wiitten for the Anniversary of the Landing of the 
Pilgrims. 



Hymn for the 22d of December. 
Tune—* Otd Hundred.' 

Hail, Pilgrim Fathers of our race ! 
With grateful hearts, your toils we trace ; 
Again this Votive Day returns, 
And finds us bending o'er your urns. 

Jehovah's arm prepar'd the road ; 
The Heathen vanish'd at his nod : 
He gave his Viiie a lasting root; 
He loads his goodly boughs with fruit. 

The hills are cover'd with its shade ; 
Its thousand shoots like cedars spread ; 
Its branches to the seaexpand. 
And reach to broad ^Superior'* strand. 

Of peace and truth the gladsome ray 
Smiles in our skies and cheers the day; 
And a new Empire's 'splendent wheels 
Roll o'er the top of western JiHls. 

Hail, Pilgrim Fathers of our race ! 
With grateful hearts your toils we trace; 
Oft as this Votive Day returns. 
We *11 pay due honors to your urns, 
29* 



342 HYMNS AND ODES. 



Ode for the 22d of December. 

By Hon. John Davis. 

Composed for the Anniversary Festival at Plymouth, in the 
year 1794. 

Sons of renowned Sires, 
Join in harmonious choirs, 

Swell your loud songs j 
Daughters of peerless dames, 
Come with your mild acclaims, 
Let their revered names 

Dwell on your tongues. 

From frowning Albion's seat. 
See the fam'd band retreat, 

On ocean tost ; 
Blue tumbling billows roar, 
By keel scarce plough'd before, 
And bear them to this shore, 

Fetter'd with frost. 

"Ni By yon wave-beaten Rock, 
See the illustrious flock 

Collected stand ; 
To seek some sheltering grove. 
Their faithful partners move, 
Dear pledges of their love 
In either hand. 

Not winter's sullen face, 
Not the fierce tawny race 

In arms array'd ; 
Not hunger shook their faith 
Not sickness' baleful breath. 
Nor Carver's early death. 

Their souls dismay'd 



HYMNS AND ODES. 343 

Water*<f by heavenly dew, 
The Germ of Empire grew, 

Freedom its root; 
From the cold northern pine, 
Par t'ward the burning line, 
Spreads the luxuriant vine, 

Bending with fruit. 

Columbia, child of Heaven, 
The best of blessings giv'n, 

Rest on thy head ; 
Beneath thy peaceful skies. 
While prosperous tides arise. 
Here turn thy grateful eyes, 

Revere the dead. 

Here trace the moss-grown stones. 
Where rest their mould'ring bones, 

Again to rise ; 
And let thy sons be led, 
To emulate the dead. 
While o'er their tombs they tread 

With moisten'd eyes. 

Sons of renowned Sires, 
Join in harmonious choirs. 

Swell your loud songs ; 
Daughters of peerless dames, 
Come with your mild acclaims, 
Let their revered names 

Dwell on your tongues. 



344 HYMNS AND ODES. 



Hymn — By Rev. Dr. Holmes. 

Sung at the ISQth Anniversary of the Landing of the Fathers 
at Plymouth J December 22d, 1806. 

Tune—* Old Hundred.^ 

Our Fathers' God ! to Thee we raise, 
With one accord, the song of praise ; 
To Thee our grateful tribute pay, 
Oft as returns this festal day. 

With tearful eyes we here will trace 
Thy wonders to the Pilgrim race, 
And while those wonders we explore, 
Their names extol, thy name adore. 

Our Fathers' God ! Thy own decree 
Ordain'd the Pilgrims to be free ; 
In foreign lands they own'd thy care. 
And found a safe asylum there. 

When the wide main they travers'd o'er, 
And landed on this sea-beat shore, 
The Pilgrim's Rock must e'er proclaim 
Thy guardian care was still the same. 

Our Father's God ! while here we trace 
Our lineage to the 'Pilgrim race, 
O may we like those Pilgrims live. 
And in the sons the sires revive. 

Our Father's God ! to Thee we raise. 
With one accord, the song of praise ; 
To Thee our grateful tribute pay. 
Oft as returns this festal day. 



HYMNS AND ODES, 



345 



Two Hundred Years Ago. 

The folloimig Song, composed by Rev. Dr. Flint, for the oc- 
casion, was sung at the Public Dinner at Plymouth ^ 
on the 22d of December, 1820. 

1. Come, listen to my story, 

Though often told before,, 
Of men who pass'd to glory. 

Through toil and travail sore ; 
Of men who did for conscience sake 

Their native land forego, 
And sought a home and freedom hercr 

Two hundred years ago. 

>y 2. O, 't was no ea'rth-born passion, 

That bade the adventurers stray ; 
The world and all its fashion, 

With them had passed away. 
A voice from Heaven bade them look 

Above the things below, 
When here they sought a resting-place 

Two hundred years ago. 

3. O, dark the scene and dreary. 

When here they set them doAvn ;• 
Of storms anu billows weary. 

And chill'd with winter's frown. 
Deep moan'd the forests to the wind, 

Loud howPd Vhe savage foe, 
While here their evening prayer arose 

Tivo hundred years ago. 

4. 'T would drown the heart in sorrow 

To tell of all their woes ; 
No respite could they borrow. 

But from the grave's repose. 
Yet nought could daunt the Pilgrim Band 

Or sink their courage low, 
Who came to plant the Gospel here 

Tlvo hundred years aga. 



346 HYMNS AND ODES. 

5. With humble prayer and fasting, 

In every strait anJ grief, 
They sought the Everlasting, 

And found a sure relief. 
Their cov'nant God o'orshadow'd them, 

Their shield from every foe, 
And gave them here a dwelling place 

Two hundred years ago. 

>^ C. Of fair New England's glory. 
They laid the corner-stone ; 
This praise, in deathless story, 

Their grateful sons shall own. 
Prophetic they foresaw in time, 
A mighty state should grow, 
From them a few^ faint Pilgrims here, 
Two hundred years ago. 

7. If greatness be in daring, 

Our Pilgrim Sires were great, 
Whose sojourn here, unsparing. 

Disease and famine wait ; 
And oft their treach'rous foes combin'd 

To lay the strangers low, 
While founding here their commonwealth 

Two hundred years ago. 

8. Though seeming over-zealous. 

In things by us deeni'd light. 
They were but duly jealous 

Of power usurping right. 
They nobly chose to part with all 

Most dear to men below, 
To worship here their God in peace 

Two hundred years ago. 

9. From seeds they sowed with weeping, 

Our richest harvests rise. 
We still the fruits are reaping 
Of Pilgrim enterprise. 



HYMNS AND ODES. 347 

Then grateful we to them will pay 
The debt of fame we owe, 
, Who planted here the tree of life 
Two hundred ysars ago, 

10. As comes this period yearly, 

Around our cheerful fires, 
We 'Jl think and tell how dearly 

Our comforts cost our sires. 
For them will wake the votive song-, 

And bid the canvass glow, 
Who fix'd the home of freedom here 

Two hundred years ago. 



ODE 

For the Celebration of the Anniversary of the Pilgrim Society 
of Plymouth, December 22d, 1824. 

By Rev. J. Pierpont. 

The pilgrim fathers— where are they ? 

The waves that brought them o'er 
Still roll in the bay, and throw their spray, 

As they break along the shore : 
Still roll in the bay, as they rolled that day 

When the Mayflower moored below, 
When the sea around was black with storms, 

And white the shore with snow. 

The mists, that wrapped the pilgrim's sleep, 

Still brood upon the tide ; 
And his rocks yet keep their watch by the deep^ 

To stay its waves of pride ; 
But the snow-white sail, that he gave to the gale 

When the heavens looked dark, is gone : — 
As an angel's wing, through an opening cloudy 

Is se«n, aud then withdrawn. 



348 HYMNS AND ODES. 

The pilgrim exile— sainted name ! 

The hill, whose icy brow- 
Rejoiced, w4ien he came, in the morning's flarae, 

In the morning's flame burns now. 
And the moon's cold light as it lay that night 

On the hill-side and the sea, 
Still lies where he laid his houseless head ; — 

But the pilgrim — where is he ? 

The pilgrim fathers are at rest : 

When Summer 's throned on high, 
And the world's warm breast is in verdure dressed 

Go, stand on the hill where they lie. 
The earliest ray of the golden day 

On that hallowed spot is cast ; 
And the evening sun, as he leaves the world, 

Looks kindly on that spot last. 

/The pilgrim spirit has not fled : 

' It walks in noon's broad light; 

f 

i And it watches the bed of the glorious dead, 

With the holy stars, by night. 

\ It watches the bed of the brave who have bled, 

And shall guard this ice-l)ound shore. 

Till the waves of the bay, where the Mayflower lay, 

: Shall foam and freeze no more. 



Original Hymn. 

By Rev. S. Deane, for the '^22d of Dec, 1831 

Lo ! the rising star of Freedom 

Once our pilgrim fathers blest ; 
By her light, ordained to lead them. 
To the land of promised rest. 
Star of heaven ! 
Star of heaven ! 
Trav'ling toward the distant west. 



HYMNS AND ODES. 349 

While their countless toils enduring-, 

Faith the promise kept in sight : 
For themselves and sons securing-, 
Home and country, truth and light 
Star of heaven! 
Star of heaven ! 
Pointing to Jehovah's might. 

Now the relics round us lying. 

Grateful children guard their clay ! 
While their spirits, never dying, 
Hope has borne on wings awav : 
Star of heaven ! 
Star of heaven ! 
Guiding to a brighter day. 

Raise we honors to their merit, 

Temples sculptured with their name ? 
No! their virtues to inherit. 

Seals their bright and conscious fame 
Star of heaven ! 
Star of heaven ! 
High they shine with ceaseless flame. 

See the lights around us gleaming, 
Still to guide the pilgrims' eyes: 
See the star of empire beamino-, 
Bids their children's glory rise. 
Star of heaven ! 
Star of heaven ! 
Glowing still in western skies. 



Original Hymn. 

For the Dedication of the Mw Church. 
By Rev. J. Pierpont. 
1. The winds and waves are roaring : 
The Pilgrin)s met for prayer ; 
And here, their God adoring, 

They stood in open air, 
30 



350 HYMNS AND ODES. 

When breaking day they greeted, 
And when its close was calm, 

The leafless woods repeated 
The music of their psalm. 

9. Not thus, O God, to praise thee, 

Do we, their children throng: 
The temple's arch we raise thee, 

Gives back our choral song. 
Yet, on the winds that bore thee 

Their worship and their prayers, 
May ours come up before thee 

From hearts as true as theirs! 

3. What have we. Lord, to bind us 

To this, the Pilgrims' shore ! — 
Their hill of graves behind us. 

Their watery way before, 
The wintry surge, that dashes 

Against the rocks they trod, 
Their memory, and their ashes — 

Be thou their guard, O God ! 

4. We would not, Holy Father, 

Forsake this hallowed spot. 
Till on that shore we gather 

Where graves and griefs are not 
The shore where true devotion 

Shall rear no pillared shrine. 
And see no other ocean 

Than that of love divine. 



hymns and odes. 351 

Hymn. 
By W. C. Bryant. 

Wild was the day ; the wintry sea 

Moaned sadly on New England's strand, 
When first, the thoughtful and the free, 

Our fathers, trod the desert land. 

They little thought how pure a light 

With years, should gather round that day ; 
How love should keep their memories bright, 
. How wide a realm their sons should sway. 

Green are their bays ; and greener still 
Shall round their spreading fame be wreathed, 

And regions now untrod, shall thrill 
With reyerence, when their names are breathed. ♦* 

Till where the sun, with softer fires, 

Looks on the vast Pacific's sleep, 
The children of the pilgrim sires, 

This hallowed day like us shall keep. 



Anniversary Hymn, 

Composed, for the Anniversary Dec. 22(i, 1834. 

By W. S. Russell. 

St. Martins.— C. M. 

Lo where of old the Fathers dwelt, 

From home and temples dear. 
And oft in prayer devoutly knelt. 

Their children would appear. 

And round thine altar, God of grace, 
With rev'rent homage stand, 
, Through ages past thy love to trace 
In this our favor'd land. 



352 HY3INS AND ODES-. 

By faith inspir'd with steadfast mind, 

To shun oppression's rage, 
The Pilgrims here their steps inclined, 

Bright heralds of their age. 

No golden mines their visions lur'd, 
No cbnq'ror's pride was theirs ; 

The soul's pure worship once secur'd, 
Repays their generous cares. 

Here freedom's sacred altars rose,. 

Rear'd by the Pilgrim sires; 
We '11 guard them still from threat'ning foes, 

And light anew their fires. 

Great God, thine all pervading sway, 

Each passing age controls, , 

O may thy grace illume our day, 
.^ And ever cheer our souls. , 



THE ABORIGINES or INDIAN NATIVES 



OF 



NEW ENGLAND 



30* 



THE 

ABORIGINES OR INDIAN NATIVES 
OF NEW ENGLAND. 

The various tribes of American Indians differed but little 
from each other in manners and customs, and they all formed 
a striking picture of the remotest antiquity. In studying the 
character and manners of the natives of our country, we recog- 
nize in some measure the antiquity of all nations, and from 
which some light is thrown upon many parts of ancient authors 
both sacred and profane. In their persons, the American In- 
dians were from five to six feet in height, straight in their limbs, 
formed in muscle for great strength and activity, and capable 
of enduring astonishing privations and hardships. Their fea- 
tures were regular, but their countenance peculiarly fierce; of 
a reddish, and not unpleasant complexion, their eyes black, 
their hair long, black, lank and strong. It was their constant 
practice to oil their bodies and face with fat of bears and eagles, 
and to paint the face with various fantastic colors, as red, black 
and white. The dress of the men, was the skin of a deer or 
wolf, though generally they were naked, except a slight cover- 
ing about the waist. Their moccasins were made of skins, and 
their snow-shoes were ingeniously cons^ucted to walk on the 
snow. Their women were commonly attired in beaver skins. 

They entertained the idea that cultivating the earth is de- 
grading to man, who they say was made for war and hunting, 
and holding council, and that " squaws and hedge hogs were 
made to scratch the ground." Their women therefore were 
held in perfect slavery, being put to all out-door drudgery as 
planting and weeding corn and carrying burdens, &c. while the 
men were indulging themselves in idleness. They called the 
white people " much fool to spoil their women by keeping them 
from out-door labor and making them lazy squaws." They 
manifested on all occasions a strong attachment and affection 
for their children. Their invariable rule for planting corn was 
when the leaves of the oak were of the size of a mouse's ear. 
They used large clam shells, or the shoulder bone of a moose 



356 INDIAN HISTORY. 

or deer fixed to a handle, to dig the earth and weed the corn. 
Their wigwams were constructed with poles or young saplings 
set into the ground, and covered with bark and mats, the smoke 
passing out at the top. Their food was extremely simple; be- 
sides that procured by hunting and fishing, they obtained fi-om 
the earth, acorns, ground nuts, Indian corn, beans, pumpkins, 
and squashes. Whortleberries, gooseberries and strawberries, 
were plenty in their season. Their mode of cooking although 
very "Imperfect, afforded them some variety of food. Indian 
corn broken and boiled, they called nausamp or samp; corn 
when parched and reduced to powder resembling snuff, they 
called JYokekike or JYokahe; this article they always carried with 
them when travelling abroad, a little of which mixed with water 
would serve them for many days' support when hunting. Corn 
pounded to meal, and boiled, was called hominy, and corn and 
beans boiled together, they called succatash, and this is even 
now a favorite dish at our anniversary festivals and among an- 
tiquarians. The education of the natives from their infancy, 
was solely directed to fit their bodies for the endurance of the 
greatest hardships and privations, and to form their minds to in- 
flict, and to suffer the most appalling evils. It is really won- 
derful that the human constitution should be capable of sustain- 
ing such severe discipline as was on some occasions put in prac- 
tice. Their infants were from the birth corded down to a board 
and confined in one position for months in succession, and their 
young men who were educated for powows were forced to 
swallow some nauseous draught as an emetic, and when the 
contents of the stomach were thrown up they were obliged to 
swallow the same again and again till the stomach itself was 
almost inverted. Their chief occupations were hunting and 
war. When their htinting season was over, they generally 
loitered in their cabirti in entire indolence, and ate and drank 
with unbounded excess while their stores lasted. After the in- 
troduction of spirituous liquors among them they suffered inex- 
pressible miseries; they would drink without restraint, so long 
as they could procure liquor, and in their drunkenness they 
would lie exposed to the weather and perish in rivers, swamps, 
or tumble into the fire. They would quarrel, and frequently 
murder each other when intoxicated. 

Their war weapons were, bows, arrows and tomahawks. 
With their strong elastic bows' they could throw an arrow to a 
great distance, and strike an object with surprising precision. 
Their arrows were feathered with the quills of eagles and point- 
ed with a long sharp stone, or with bones, or eagle's claws. 
Their tomahawks were made of flat stone sharpened to an edge 



INDIAN HISTORY, 357 

and fixed to a handle, they knew not the use of iron. But soon 
after the arrival of the English settlers, the natives were sup- 
plied with iron tomahawks, and even with fire arms, by the 
French, and some others, and taught to use them with dexterity. 
When prepared for vvar the appearance of a company of Indians 
was truly formidable; their faces were painted in a manner to 
give them a fierce aspect, all the hair on each side of the head 
was plucked out to the naked skin, and a single narrow tuft tied 
up on the crown, extending from the forehead to the occiput, 
resembling a cock's comb. After they learnt the use of fire 
arms, powder horns and shot bags at their backs were among 
their war implements. The war dance and the ceremony of 
smoking in brotherly concord, the pipe passing from one to 
another, always preceded the war engagements, and was their 
bond of sacred obligation. Their mode of warfare was strata- 
gem and ambush, taking their enemy by sudden surprise, ac- 
companied by the most horrific savage yells. In their assaults 
upon defenceless houses for conflagration and slaughter, their 
indiscriminate butchery was marked by savage cruelty without 
the least regard to humanity or mercy; and the wretched in- 
habitants that were captured and carried into the wilderness 
suffered a fate little Jess dreadful than death. Those who were 
too feeble to travel were murdered on their way, others when 
arrived at their wigwams were put into Indian families as ser- 
vants and a master and mistress assigned them, unless indeed 
they were destined to be tormented for the amusement of their 
savage captors. When prisoners were taken in battle they 
were treated differently according to existing circumstances. 
Had one of the tribe been slain or cap^^|p^ g prisoner either 
Indian or white man mio;ht have thejgQ«f(mune to be adopted 



in his place. But otherwise, thfi ■jf^l^i'^'^'as condemned to 
suffer the most cruel torment J|y^Deuig^a$t eel alive, while the 
savages danced around the ftre with awMl yel!s; or the prison- 
er's body was tortured by tearing or bitmg off the flesh, or cut- 
ting off the fingers and limbs by pieces, tearing out the finger 
nails and protracting life as long as possible that the torment 
may be increased and lengthened. The Indian victim suffered 
the most exquisite torture with a fortitude almost beyond human 
nature; often in defiance pointing out to his tormenters means 
of greater torture. 

It seems not to have been ascertained at what era the horrid 
practice of scalping victims was first introduced among the 
several tribes of North American Indians. It has been sup- 
posed by some that scalping was unknown prior to the arrival 
of the white settlers ;, but so early as 1608, according to Capt. 



358 INDIAN HISTORY. 

Smith's history of the Virginia settlement, the Indians at one 
time killed 24 men — took off their scalps, and with the women 
and children prisoners returned to their village. The scalps 
they exhibited upon a line between two trees as a trophy. It 
appears that the good people of Massachusetts were not back- 
ward in adopting this savage custom. It is recorded that, the 
cruel and barbarous murders daily committed by the Indians 
upon the defenceless frontier inhabitants (about 1725) caused 
the general court of Massachusetts to offer a bounty of <£100 
for every Indian's scalp. In an excursion with 40 men, Capt. 
Lovewell fell in with a company of ten Indians who were 
asleep, and killed all of them. After taking off their scalps, 
these 40 warriors marched to Boston in great triumph, with ten 
scalps extended upon hoops, displayed in a formal manner, and 
for which they received ^1000.* At subsequent periods, the 
practice of scalping was common in various parts of our coun- 
try, as well also as that of torture by burning alive. 

In the colonies, during the war between England and France 
in 1760, the tomahawk and scalping knife were employed by 
the savages in the colonies to all their victims indiscriminately of 
age or sex. In 1763, the natives actually " boiled and ate the 
body of Sir Robert Devers;" and these ba/barians of the for- 
est were known to scoop up the blood of their victims and drink 
it in savage triumph. No language indeed can paint the hor- 
rors of Indian warfare, nor can one listen to even a feeble de- 
tail of their cruelties, without a blood-boiling shudder. Their 
adroitness in taking off the scalp is almost incredible; havi^ng . 
inflicted the mortal wound with the tomahawk, the savage takes 
the dying hDdyJ3«|Li^|ten his knees, and with his scalping knife 
makes a cu^Im w^lan^ound the head.^ then seizing hold of 
the skin wi^Hiinw^B&|riA3 off^he entire scalp to the nak- 



ed skull in mimkt^^MNma&cqms instances of recovery after 
this dreadful operatiJI can be arf'Suced.-f The scalping In- 
dians have a singular method of drying the scalps, and of paint- 
ing on them different figures and colors designating the sex 
and age of the victim, and also the manner and circumstances 
of the murder. But the brighter shade of the Indian charac- 
ter is peculiarly striking. They were remarkable for gravity 
in their deportment upon all serious occasions; of a temper 

* Drake's Indian biography, pagre 237: and it is noticed that one 
Indian was scalped by the Chaplain. 

f See a remarkable.example of this in Capt. Greg related by the 
author, in his military journal, page 113, of this volume. 



INDIAN HISTORY. 359 

cool and deliberate, never in haste to speak before they have 
thought well on the subject and are sure the person who spoke 
before them has finished all he had to say. They had there- 
fore, the greatest contempt for the vivacity of the Europeans 
who interrupted each other, and frequently speak altogether. 
It was edifying to observe their behavior in their public coun- 
cils and assemblies. Every one there was heard in his turn 
according to his years, his wisdom, or his services to his coun- 
try had ranked him. Their language was lofty, their sentences 
short, and abounding with metaphor. Not a word, not a whis- 
per, nor murmur was heard from the rest while one was speak- 
ing. No indecent contradiction, no ill-timed applause. Here 
the younger class were present to learn the history of their na- 
tion, and hear the songs of those who celebrate the war-like 
actions of their ancestors ; and here they were taught what 
belonged to the interest of their country, and the most proper 
means of contributing to its welfare. We know of no people 
amongst whom the laws of hospitality were more sacred, or 
executed with more generosity and good will. Has any one of 
them succeeded ill in his hunting? has his harvest failed? or is 
his wigwam burnt? He feels no other effect of his misfortune, 
than that it gives him an opportunity of experiencing the be- 
nevolence and regard of his brethren. The stranger was al- 
ways welcomed to the cabin of the savage and permitted to 
share in all the comforts which it afforded even to the last mor- 
sel of food, and an act of kindness received is never forgottent 
Instances have been known of prisoners being set free on re- 
collection of benefits received. The na^jg|fl|i^[ans discovered 
a peculiar propensity to the indulgew|jPJmHH|te tobacco. 
The Rev. Roger Williams saa^D' Generally'^^J the men 
throughout the country ha^|||^Hk|j||j|^|^2|y|^Va pipe in it 
hanging at his back." Ir^^HB^^^^^P^^^K it was as 
much a mark of friendshijSBRffer tfl^H^ ancrtobacco as in 
our polite circles to present a glass of wine. But to the ene- 
mies of his country or tribe, or to those who have privately 
offended, the Indian is implacable. He conceals his inten- 
tions, he appears reconciled, until by some treachery, or 
surprise, he finds an opportunity of executing an horrible 
revenge. He is capable of disguising his feelings, and 
concealing his designs, at the moment, even when he is about 
to plunge the dagger into the heart of his victim. No length 
of time is sufficient to allay his resentment; no distance of place 
great enough to protect the object; he crosses the steepest 
mountains, he penetrates the most impracticable forests, and 
traverses the most hideous swamps and deserts for hundreds of 



360 INDIAN HISTORY. 

miles, bearing the inclemency of the seasons, the fatigues of 
the expedition, the extremes of hunger and thirst with patience 
and cheerfuhiess, in hopes of surprising his enemy, on whom 
he is prepared to exercise the most shocking barbarities, even 
to the eating of his flesh and drinking his blood. Notwithstand- 
ing their ferocity, no people have their angry passions more 
under their command. From their infancy they are formed with 
care to endure scoffs, taunts, blows, and every sort of insult 
patiently, or at least with a composed countenance. They es- 
teemed nothing so unworthy a man of sense and dignity, as a 
peevish temper, and proneness to a sudden gush of anger. As 
to their religion, they manifested very little idea of a God, though 
they recognise the Great Spirit in the clouds and the winds, * 
and seemed to acknowledge him as eternal and omnipotent, the 
author of the seasons and of all good; yet they render to him 
no kind of ^vorship. There were indeed nations in America who 
paid some religious homage to the sun and moon; and others 
who worshipped the Devil, with the hope of appeasing his anger, 
and of courting his friendship and protection. They appeared 
to have some obscure conceptions of a future state or spiritual 
life, and they were accustomed to bury in the graves with the 
dead their war implements and household utensils and orna- 
ments, with the belief that they will be used by the disembodied 
spirits. They were full in the superstitious belief of demons 
and fairies, and great observers of omens and dreams, and re- 
lied much on diviners, augurs, and magicians, in all their affairs, 
whether of health, war, or hunting. Their priests or powows, 
were their ahy^||M|^u-ho practised, for the relief of the sick, 
magical ceaRSHMBbncantations. They acted in the char- 
acter of ^^^B^?s. calling <i|H^ Devil to assist them in the cure 
of diseases^^Bfci- ^ ihiTions;r.the po wow, sometimes with an 
assumed fiSHpfe-;. „. _ '^^'lifil? ^"^ ^^ others with antic 

gestures and'Tiorri0!MWimuces,'^roored to extreme sweating 
and weariness, promismg to sacrifice many skins of beasts, ket- 
tles, hatchets, beads, knives, and other the best things they pos- 
sessed, to the fiend, if he would come to help the diseased per- 
son. A powow could not work his witchcraft in the presence 
of an English person, nor <;ould his incantations have any effect 
on the English. They adopted one expedient for the cure of 
diseases, which may be deemed hazardous. The patient was 
shut up in a close cabin, and heated by steam until a copious 
perspiration was produced, when he was suddenly plunged into 

* ' Lo the poor In8ian, vvhose untiitor'd mind 
Sees God in clouds, or hears him in the wind.' — Pope, 



INDIAN HISTORY. 361 

a river. This is similar to the practice among the Russians, 
who, after being heated to the highest degree, roll themselves 
on the snow, and with impunity. 

The American Aborigines were divided into numerous inde- 
pendent tribes, and* their forms of government were various. In 
some tribes, their government was an absolute despotism, in the 
hands of the Sachem or SaQ;amores, and was hereditary. When 
a king or Sachem died, the powow married the squaw, that is, 
his queen, and became king in the right of his wife. 

There were also among the Indians another grade of influen- 
tial men, called Panie^e^ who were selected lor their great cour- 
age and wisdom; and to these also, the Devil, as they supposed, 
appeared more familiarly than to others, and would preserve 
them from death, by wounds with arrows, knives, hatchets, &c. 
The Paniese were held in high esteem, and were always of the 
Sachem's council, without whom they would not engage in war,, 
or undertake any weighty business. Unwearied endeavors 
were used by the first settlers to civilize and christianise the 
native Indians. Under the management of the pious and be- 
nevolent Mr. Eliot, the bible was translated into the Indian lan- 
guage. Indian churches and societies were formed, and preach- 
ers and deacons were chosen among (ham; and at one period so 
considerable was the number of those called christians or pray- 
ing Indians, as to-afFord encouragement, that, by the blessing of 
Divine Providence, a more general conversion would take place. 
But there were not a few of their influential Sachems who were 
pertinaciously opposed to the introduction of Christianity in 
their tribes. Some, who ha<l adopted thcxhrisltan profession, 
apostatized from the faith, and, hke^i^r»i ^Ans vomit, re- 
turned to heathenism. ^ J^^JjKm'im^ 

An honest Indian deacon _Qfcifcli'^ M^^ »^#d the reason 
why, when their young m^WPre e(^L™d*n ■pglish families 
and became acquainted wm^heir hJ^jjfRnd manners, on re- 
turning to their tribe they immediately became idle, indolent 
drunkards? the deacon replied, ' .Tucks will he tucks for all old 
hen be hatch em.' 

In the town of Yarmouth, there was an Indian deacon, named 
Joseph Naughaut. He was very pious and exemplary, wasoftr 
en called to pray with the sick, and at funerals; when at an ad- 
vanced age, he was, in his last sickness, visited by the late Rev. 
Mr. Alden, who asked him if he was reconciled to death.'* ' O, 
yes,' said he, * I have always had a pretty good notion about 
death.' Naughaut was once, while in the woods, attacked by 
a large number of black snakes. Not having a stick, a knife, 
or any article foi* defence, he knew not what to do. Knowing 
31 



362 INDIAN HISTORY. 

that he could not outrun them, he resolved to stand still on his 
feet. The snakes began to entwine themselves about him, and 
one reached his mouth, as if trying to enter; the deacon opened 
his mouth, land the snake put in its head, when the deacon in- 
stantly clapped his jaws together, and bit off the serpent's head. 
The streaming blood from the beheaded frightened the rest of 
the snakes, and they all ran off. — Alden^s Epitaphs. 

If the native Indians were remarkable for their gravity on 
some occasions, they were no less so for a propensity to cun- 
ning and shrewdness on others. 

By permission of the author, I cite a few examples from 
Drake's valuable Indian Biography. 

As Governor Joseph Dudley, of Massachusetts, observed an 
able-bodied Indian half naked come and look on as a pastime to 
see his men work, asked him why he did not work, and get some 
clothes to cover himself . The Indian answered by asking him 
ivhy he did not work. The Governor, pointing with his finger to 
his he'ad, said, ' I work Ivead work, and so have no need to work 
with my hands, as you should.' The Governor toid him he 
wanted a calf killed, and that, if he would go and do it, he 
would give him a shilling. He accepted the offer, and went 
immediately and killed the calf, and then went sauntering about 
as before. The Governor, on observing what he had done, 
asked him why he did not dress the calf before he left it. The 
Indian answered, ' JVo, ?io, Coponoh, (Governor,) that was not 
in the bargain. I was to have a shilling for killing him. Am he 
no dead, Coponoh?' (Governor.) The Governor, seeing him- 
self outwitted, told 14jn to dress it, and he would give him anoth- 
er shilling. Being mow in possession of two shillings, the Indian 
goes directly to a grog-sl«)p for rum. After a short stay, he re- 
turned to the Gpvernoir, and tbld him he had given him a bad 
shilling piece, and pTresentcd a brass one to be exchanged. 
The Governor, thinking possibly it might have been th^ case, 
gave him another. - It was not long b^efore he returned a second 
time with another brass shilling to be exchanged ; the Governor 
was now convinced of his knavery, but, not caring to make 
. words at the time, gave him another; and the fellow got four 
shillings for one. The Governor determined to have the rogue 
corrected for his abuse, and meeting with him soon after, told 
him he must take a letter to Boston "for him, and gave him a 
crown for his service. The letter was directed to the keeper of 
the Bridewell, ordering him to give the bearer so many lashes; 
but mistrusting that all was not exactly agreeable, and meeting 
the Governor's servant on the road, ordered him, in the name of 
liis master, to carry the letter immediately, as he was in haste 



INDIAN HISTORY. 363 

to return. The consequence was, the servant was tied up and 
received the number of lashes. The Governor felt no little 
chagrin, at being thus twice outwitted by the Indian. Falling 
in with him, sometime after, the Governor asked him by what 
means he had cheated and deceived him so many times? He 
answered, pointing with his finger to his head, ^ Head-work ^ 
Coponoh, head-work ! ' The Governor was now so well pleased 
that he forgave the whole offence. 

Two Indian chiefs being in England attracted great attention. 
Being asked their opinion of religion, or of what religion they 
were, one made answer, that they had no priest in their country, 
or established religion, for they thought, that, upon a subject 
where there was no possibility of peoples' agreeing in opinion, 
and as it was altogether a matter of mere opinion, ' it was best 
that every one should paddle his canoe his own way.' A mis- 
sionary, residing among a certain tribe of Indians, was one day, 
after he had been preaching to them, invited by their chief to 
visit his wigwam. After having been kindly entertained, and 
being about to depart, the chief took him by the hand and said, 
*I have very bad squaw. She had two little children. One she 
loved well, the other she hated. In a cold night, when I was 
gone hunting, she shut it out of the wigwam, and it froze to 
death. What punishment must she have?' The missionary re- 
plied, ^she must be hanged.' 'Ah!' said the chief, ^ go then, 
and hang your God, whom you make just like her.' 

Note. — This sketch of the character and manners of the In- 
dians is taken partly from writers who have described them as 
they now exist on the continent, and partly from the early histo- 
rians among the colonists. | 

The prominent and essential features of the Indian character, 
where it is still allowed to display itself^ are the same now that 
they were two centuries ago. Certain peciuliarities, undoubtedly, 
may now, as then, be observed in jfartTcular tribes, from the 
effect of situation or other local circumstances, and some ex^ 
ceptions to the account in the text of their religious ceremonies, 
and of the appellations of their rulers and priests, may probably 
be found; but the description will, in general, equally apply to 
the natives as they were seen by our forefathers, to those seen 
by the author while in the American Army, and to those still 
remaining in the land. 

Among the principal nations of Indians in New England at 
the first settlement of the country by our ancestors were the 
Wampanoags^ otherwise called Pokanokets. They occupied 
the whole colony of Plymouth, a part of Massachusetts, the 
Islands of Nantucket, ^nd Martha's Vineyard, Cape Cod, and 



364 INDIAX HISTORY. 

a part of Rhode Island, Mount Hope in Bristol being the seat 
of their chieftains. The Chief or Prince of this tribe was 
Massasoit, otherwise written Ma-sas-so-it, Masaasoyf^ or Massa- 
soijet. It was customary among the native chiefs to assume dif- 
ferent names when any great exploit was about to be performed, 
or on other occasions as caprice or fancy might dictate; ac- 
cordingly we find that Massasoit assumed the following; Woo- 
samequin, Osamekin, Owsameqmn, or Ousamequm. 

Massasoit was the most renowned, and the most meritorious 
chief of his time, and a firm friend to the English settlers dur- 
ing his life. He was not famed so much for war exploits, as 
for his mild, hu-mane and peaceable disposition, for his love of 
his people, and moderation of government. Dignified in his 
conduct and manners, and wise in his policy, his dominion and 
influence were extended over many neighboring tribes, who 
acknowledged him as their tutelar father and protector, depend- 
ing on his authority to sanction all their expeditions and adjust 
all their difficulties. Massasoit, was the earliest and most gen- 
erous friend of the Plymouth Pilgrims. His grant of an ex- 
tensive territory made to the first settlers, when entire stran- 
gers, was a noble act of friendship, and his fidelity to the famous 
treaty of 1621, during the continuance of his life, and then 
transferring the same obhgafion to his sons, form an instance 
of moral and political virtue little to be expected from an un- 
civilized chieftain. When the Pilgrims landed on the shore 
they took possession of a portion of Massasoit *s country called 
Patuxet, now Plymouth. It may be supposed that this intru- 
sion of strangers excited" a share of anxiety as well as of curi- 
osity in the mind of the chief, and it required a degree of wis- 
dom and prudence to determine the course to be pursued. In 
March, 16*21, the King sent a 'petty chief named Sainosd^wXio 
had been a captive ia|England, to make observations on the 
new comers. He entered abruptly among the English and 
addressed them in their own language. About five days after- 
wards, Massasoit presented himself accompanied with 60 men 
with bows and arrows, but approached with great caution, stop- 
ping on Strawberry hill within view of the settlers. Governor 
Carver sent Mr. Edward Wiuslow to hold conversation with 
him, carrying presents for the king and his brother Quadequi- 
na, who was with him. Massasoit was well pleased with this 
interview, and Mr. Winslow agreed to remain as a hostage in 
the hands of Quadequina while the king was conducted to an 
interview with Governor Carver, who received him with drum 
and fife, and with much favor and respect, and treated him with 
the best refreshments in his power. The two personages kissed 



INDIAN aistdRir. 365 

each other and a treaty of mutual benefit was at once conclud- 
ed. (See page 35.) In July following, Mr. Winslow and Ste- 
phen Hopkins with Sqiianto for interpreter visited Massasoit at 
Pokanoket, carrying for his acceptance a trooper's red laced 
coat, and a copper chain. 

This interview was exceedingly pleasing to both parties, and 
the king's pride was greatly elated by his new coat and chain, 
and his people were equally well pleased with the proud appear- 
ance of their king. In 1623, Massasoit was seized with sick- 
ness which brought him to the brink of the grave. On this oc- 
casion he was visited by his good friend, Mr. Edward Winslow, 
and Mr. John Hampden. Mr. Winslow, with extraordinary 
kindness and skill, ministered to his relief, and performed almost 
a miraculous cure, which laid a foundation for a lasting friend- 
ship for his benefactor and for the English in general. In grat- 
itude for this favor he informed Mr. Winslow of a combination 
of Indians for the destruction of the English settlers. Not a 
single incident recorded by any writer to the disparagement of 
his character has ever come to our knowledge. It was by his 
consummate sagacity, and the intrinsic dignity and energy of 
his character, and the kind qualities of his heart, that he was 
enabled to control the extravagant passions of his savage peo- 
ple, and win their personal confidence and affection. There 
appears to have been no record of the precise date of Massa- 
soit's death. Hubbard supposes that he died about 1656; oth- 
ers say 1669-, but as late as May 21st, 1661, his name is found 
in the records of the United Colonies.* He must have been at 
that time about 80 years of age, and we know of no mention of 
him after that date. He is supposed to have acted as chief 
Sagamore, over the Wampanoag tribe during 50 years or more, 
and in that station he evinced a correct judgment, prudence, 
and a benevolent mind. But he ever manifested a great aver- 
sion to the Christian religion; no reasoning or persuasion, could 
induce him to forsake the idolatry of his fathers, and he enjoin- 
ed on his children to remain steadfast to their own religion. 
Massasoit and his neighbors, the Narragansets, were implaca- 
ble enemies, and the Narragansets being by far the most pow- 
erful, Massasoit was much indebted to the English, whose guns 
awed them into a peaceable behavior, and he appeared to be 
sensible of his obligations. 

In 1639, Massasoit, or Ousameqnin (as then called,) and 
his eldest son Wamsutta, afterwards called Alexander, came to 
the court at Plymouth, on the 25th of September, and desired 

* Drake's Indian Eiography. 
31* 



366 II^TDIAN HISTORY. 

that the ancient treaty which had been made in 1621, might 
remain inviolable, to which they promised that they would faith- 
fully adhere The Sachem, and his son, did also promise to 
the court that they would not heedlessly, and unjustly raise any 
quarrels, or do any wrongs to other natives to provoke them to 
war; and that he or they shall not give, sell, or convey any of 
his or their lands, territories or possessions to any person or 
persons without the knowledge or consent of the government 
of Plymouth. These conditions, the said Ousamequin, and his 
son, for themselves, and their successors, did faithfully promise 
to observe and keep; and the whole court, in the name of the 
whole Govermnent, and people, did then ratify and confirm the 
aforesaid ancient league and confederacy; and did also further 
promise to the said Sachem, and his son, and his successors, 
that they will from time to time, defend them and their succes- 
sors, against all such as shall rise up against them to wrong or 
oppress thesn unjustly. Thus this chief, from extreme anxiety, 
to preserve a firm and lastinor peace with his English n.eigh- 
bors, "not only for himself, but for his posterity, caused his eld- 
est son to enter into the same engagement with the English, 
and afterwards when his other son arrived at manhood, he was 
careful to enjoin the same policy on him also. 

In 1649, Ousamequin sold to Captain Miles Standish, Sam- 
uel Nash, and Constant Southworth, all of Duxbury, a tract of 
land usually called Saughtucket, seven miles square, which 
comprises the town of Duxbury. The price paid to Ousame- 
quin, was seven coats, of a yard and a half each, nine hatch- 
ets, eiojht hoes, twenty knives, four moose skins, and tea and a 
h.^if yards of cotton cloth. The place of Massasoit's residence 
was Mount Hope or Pokanoket, or Sowans, in the vicinity of 
Titicut on Taunton river, about 40 miles from Plymouth, but 
occasionally he resided at other places. 

In tlie year 1619, Captain Thomas Dermer was sent out from 
England by Sir Ferdinando Gorges, on account of tlie Presi- 
dent and Council of New England, in a ship of 200 tons. Pie 
had on board Sqnanto, a Pokanoket Indian who had been kid- 
napped by Captain Hunt, in 1614, and sold as a slave at Mala- 
ga, In a letter to Purchas, Capt. Dermer says, ' When I ar- 
rived at my savage's native country, finding all dead, I trav- 
elled along a day's journey to a place called Nurnmastaguyt, 
where finding inhabitants, I despatched a messenger a day's 
journey farther west to Pokanoket, which bordereth on the sea; 
whence came to see me two kino-s, attended with a guard of 50 
armed men, who being well satisfied with that my savage and I 
discoursed unto them, gave me content in whatever I demanded. 



INDIAN HISTORY. 367 

Here I redeemed a Frenchman, and afterwards another at 
Masstechusitt, who three years since escaped shipwreck at the 
northeast of Cape Cod.' The two Indian kings were probably 
Massasoit and his brother Quadequina as they resided at Po- 
kanoket. 

Much of the detail relative to the character of Massasoit has 
been given in other pages of this volume. 

The Pequots inhabited the most southern part of New Eng- 
land which comprehended what is now the state of Connecticut. 
They were once ' a very war-like and potent people.' Their 
chief Sachem was Sassacus, whose name was terrible to all the 
neighboring tribes till the English, by the assistance of the 
Mohegans and Narragansets, vanquished the whole tribe in the 
year 1637. The scene of this Pequot war was in the town of 
Groton in Connecticut where the Indians had fortified them- 
selves in the strongest manner. They had murdered Captains 
Stone, Norton, and Oldham, before the English determined to 
subdue them. In the summer of 1637 Connecticut and Massa- 
chusetts united their forces, the former under Capt. John Ma- 
son, and the latter under Capt. Israel Stoughton, and the expe- 
dition was co.mmenced. Capt. Underbill being stationed at Say- 
brook fort, shared in the attack. The English forces consisted 
of seventy-seven men and were joined by 500 Indians. On 
the 26th of May before day-light they arrived at the Indian fort 
while all within were asleep in their wigwams, and the barking 
of a dog awakened them to receive the naked swords of their 
foe. The English entered the fort sword in hand, and accord- 
ing to Capt. Mason's history, the Indians in their terrible sur-. 
])rise n^ade but a feeble resistance, their cry was ' Owamix ! 
Owanux! Eno^liskmen! Englishmen!' Instantly on entering the 
fort the English began their slaughter, sparing not women or 
children, following tliem from wigwam to wigwam, they put 
them to the sword while endeavoring to hide themselves, and 
no mercy was shown them. At length fire was put to their 
wigwams, and the flames spreading rapidly over the whole fort, 
the wounded, the dead, and the helpless were consumed in one 
av/ful conflagration. Many who attempted to escape the flames 
were shot down by those who were stationed on the outside for 
that purpose. The number of miserable wretches who perish- 
ed in this terrible conflict was about 600;* of the English two 
only were killed and about twenty wounded. Sassacus, him- 
self l)eing in another fort fled to the Mohawks, by whom he was 
beheaded. Captain Stoughton according to Mason's account 

^ Were the savages ever guilty of a more barbarous act than this? 



368f INDIAN HISTORY. 

gained but little credit in this affair. He addressed the Gov- 
ernor of Massachusetts as follows. * By this pinnace, you 
shall receive forty-eight or fifty women and children, unless 
there stay any here to be helpful, &c. There is one, I former- 
ly mentioned, that is the fairest and largest I saw amongst 
them, to whom I have given a coat to clothe her. It is my de- 
sire to have her for a servant if it may stand with your good 
liking, else not. There is a little squaw that Steward Culacut 
desireth, to whom he hath given a coat. Lieut. Davenport also 
desireth one, to wit, a small one, that hath three strokes upon 
her stomach, thus: — III -|— He desireth her if it stand with 
your good liking. Sosoman, the Indian, desireth a young little 
squaw, which I know not.' Shortly after the the termination of 
the war the Pequots appeared no more as a nation. 

The jyarragansets, possessed the country about Narra- 
ganset Bay, including Rhode Island, and other Islands in that 
vicinity, and a part of Connecticut. Ca?tomctfS was their great 
warrior Sachem. This tribe is described by our early histori- 
ans ^ as a great people,^ capable of raising 4000 warriors. 
Canonicus lived to an advanced age, and died according to 
Gov. Winthrop, June 4th, 1647. He discovered a generous 
mind in receiving Rev. Roger Williams when in great distress, 
and affording him a friendly protection. Mr. Williams men- 
tioned his name with respect and acknowledged his obligation 
to him thus in a manuscript letter to the Governor of Massa- 
chusetts. After observing that many hundreds of the English 
were witnesses to the friendly disposition of the Narragansets, 
he says: ^ Their late long lived Canonicus so lived and died in 
the same most honorable manner and solemnity (in their way) 
as you laid to sleep your prudent peace-maker Mr. Winthrop, 
did they honor this their prudent and peaceable prince; yea, 
through all their towns and countries how frequently do many 
and oft times of Englishmen travel alone with safety and loving 
kindness.'" On one occasion Canonicus thus addressed Roger 
Williams: ' I have never suffered any wrong to be done to the 
English since they landed, nor never will. If the English 
speak true, if he mean truly, then shall I go to my grave in 
peace, and I hope that the English and my posterity shall live 
in love and peace together.' 'His heart,' .says Mr. Williams, 
'was stirred up to love me as his son to the last gasp.' Howev- 
er partial Canonicus may have been to Rev. Mr. Williams, he 
was not uniformly friendly to the settlers in general. It appears 
in Gov. Winslow's Good News from New England, that in Feb- 
ruary, 1622, this chief sent into Plymouth, a bundle of arrows 
bound together with a rattle snake's skin. This was received 



INDIAN HISTORY. 369 

as it was intended, a challenge tor war. Gov. Bradford filled 
the rattle-snake skin with powder and shot and returned it to 
Cnnomcus, with a message of defiance which produced the de- 
sired effect. Canonicus was so frightened that he dared not 
touch the article and soon returned it to Plymouth and became 
silent and peaceable. (See page 45 of this vol.) 

Puiok^ according to Mr. Drake in his Indian Biography, was 
a chief of the Narragansets, who was a notorious opposer of the 
promulgation of the Christian religion among that tribe. At 
an English treaty, he was said to have urged that the English 
should not send any among them to preach the gospel, or call 
upon them to pray to God, but they refusing to concede to such 
an article, it was withdrawn. Potok was an active warrior in 
Philip's war, and was the Indian that Hubbard speaks of as a 
great counsellor, who informed of the number of Indians slain 
in the great swamp fight, and who he says was taken and exe- 
cuted; but according to Drake, 'he came in voluntarily, no 
doubt with the view of making friends again with his enemies, 
but was sent to Boston, where he was, after answering all their 
inqtiires, put to death without ceremony.' 

Mxssachusetis tribe. Chickaicmbnt, was a sachem of consid- 
erable note among the Massachusetls tribe, and one of those 
who, in 1621, acknowledged themselves the subjects of King 
James. He was Sachem of Passonagesit (Weymouth,) where 
his mother was buried. In Drake's Indian Biography the fol- 
lowing is related from Thomas Morton's Ne\v Canaan. In the 
first settling of Plymouth, some of the company in wandering 
about upon discovery, came upon an Indian grave, which was 
of the mother of Chikataubut. Over the body a stake was set 
in the ground, and two huge bear skins sewed together spread 
over it; these the English took away. When this came to the 
knowledge of Chikataubut, he complained to his people and de- 
manded immediate vengeance. When they were assembled, 
he thus harangued them: ' When last the glorious light of all 
the sky was underneath the globe and birds grew siient, I be- 
gan to settle, as my custom is to take repose; before mine eyes 
were fast closed, me tho't I saw a vision, at which my spirit 
was much troubled, and trembling at that doleful sight cried 
aloud; Behold! my son, whom I have cherished, see the paps 
that gave thee suck, the hands that clasped thee warm, and fed 
thee oft,' canst thou forget to take revenge on those wild people 
that hath my monument defaced in a despiteful manner; dis- 
daining our ancient antiquities, and honorable customs. See 
now the Sachem's grave lies, like unto the common people of 
ignoble race, defciced. Thy mother doth Gomplaim^ implores 



370 INDIAN HISTORY. 

thy aid against this thievish people newly come hither; if this 
be suffered I shall not rest in quiet within my everlasting hab- 
itation.' Battle was the unanimous resolve, and the English 
were watched and followed from place to place, until at length 
as some were going ashore in a boat, they fell upon them, but 
gained little advantage. After maintaining the fight for some 
time, and being driven from tree to tree, the chief captain was 
wounded in the arm and the whole took to flight. This action 
caused the natives about Plymouth to look upon the English as 
invincible, and was the reason that peace was maintained so 
long after." 

When Boston was settled Chikataubut visited Governor Win- 
throp, and presented him with a hogshead of corn. Many of 
his ^ sanops and squaws' came with him, but were most of them 
sent away after they had all dined, Chikataubut probably fear- 
ing they would be burdensome, although it thundered and rain- 
ed and the Governor urged their stay. At this time he wore 
English clothes, and sat at the Governor's table, where he be- 
haved himself soberly, Slc. as an Englishman. ^'Not long after 
he called on Governor Winthrop and desired to buy of him a 
suit of clothes for himself, the governor informed him that 
'English Sagamores did not use to truck;' but he called his tai- 
lor and gave him orders to make him a suit of clothes; where- 
upon he gave the governor two large skins of coat beaver. 
The clothes being ready, the governor put him into a very good 
new suit from head to foot, and after, he set meat before them; 
but he would not eat till the governor had given thanks, and af- 
ter meat he desired him to do the like, and so departed," 

Awashonks. This personage was a female chief, or Squaw 
Sachem, of Sogkonate, situated at the northeast side of the 
Narraganset bay. She seems to have possessed considerable 
abilities and great influence over her own and neighboring 
tribes. In her territories Mr. B. Church, afterwards Captain 
Church took up a temporary residence and formed an acquain- 
tance with this chief, by whom he was held in great respect. 

In July, 1671, Awashonks entered into articles of agreement 
with the Plymouth court, to which she subscribed her hand in 
presence of Samuel Barker and John Almy, and she was re- 
quired to surrender her arms in ten days. In August following 
she addressed a letter to Governor Prince as follows : 

* August nth, 1671. Honored Sir, I have received a very 
great favor from your Honor, in yours of the 7th instant, and 
as you are pleased to signify, that if I continue faithful to the 
agreement made with yourselves at Plymouth, I may expect all 
just favors fiom your Honor, I am fully resolved, while I live, 



I?fDIAN HISTORY. 371 

with all fidelity to stand to my engagement, and in a peaceable 
submission to your commands, according to the best of my poor 
ability. It is true, and I am very sensible thereof, that there 
are some Indians who do seek an advantage against me, for 
my submitting to his Majesty's authority in your jurisdiction, 
but being conscious to myself of my integrity and real inten- 
tions of peace, I doubt not but you will afford me all due en- 
couragement and protection. 1 had resolved to send in all my 
guns, being six in number, according to the intimation of my 
letter; but two of them were so large, the messengers were not 
able to carry them. I since proffered to leave them with Mr. 
Barker, but he not having any order to receive them, told me 
he conceived I might do well to send them to Mr. Almy, who is 
a person concerned in the jurisdiction, which I resolved to do; 
but since then an Indian, known by the name of Broad-faced 
Will, stole one of them out of the wigwam in the night, and 
has run away with it to Mount Hope; the other I think to send 
to Mr, Almy. A list of those that are obedient to me, and, I 
hope and am persuaded, faithful to you, is here enclosed. Hon- 
ored Sir, I shall not trouble you farther, but desiring your peace 
and prosperity, in which I look at my own to be included, 
I remain, your unfeigned servant, 

AWASUNCKS.' 

To this letter the Governor replied with some expressions of 
disapprobation, and closed with good advice and caution. In 
the spring of the year 1675, King Philip, preparing for war 
against the English, sent six messengers arrayed in warlike 
dress to negotiate with Awashonks, to unite her forces with his in 
the war. She immediately assembled her counsellors and order- 
ed a great war dance. She complimented Mr. Church with an 
invitation to be present on this great occasion. He took with 
him a man who was acquainted with the Indian language and 
repaired to the place where he found a large number of people 
and Awashonks herself in a foaming sweat leading the dance; 
but on his arrival she stopped short and having seated herself 
she ordered her chiefs into her presence, and then informed 
Mr. Church that Philip had sent six of his men to urge her to 
join him in the war, pretending that the Plymouth people were 
raising a great army to invade his country, and she applied to 
him for the truth of it. Church assured her that there was no 
foundation for the report, and that he believed war was not 
thought of amongst the head men at Plymouth. She then or- 
dered Philip's messengers into her presence, and informed them 
of what Church had said, at which they were much offended, 
and a warm talk ensued. Church wa« so unguarded as to ad- 



372 INDIAN HISTORY. 

vise Awashonks to put to death the six messengers, and put 
herself under the protection of the EngHsh. She refused to 
adopt this rash advice, and a tumult was excited; one of her 
men, called Littte-Eyes, attempted to murder Church, but was 
prevented. The chief, however, thanked Church for his infor- 
mation and advice, and agreed to put herself under the protection 
of the English, and desired him to repair to Plymouth to make 
the necessary arrangements. But before this could be com- 
pleted, the war was commenced by Philip, and the benevolent 
Awashonks was unhappily involved in it as her only alternative. 
This was a source of great grief to Capt. Church, as he was 
well aware that she entertained no partiality or attachment to 
Philip, and he resolved to avail himself of the first favorable op- 
portunity to attempt to detach her from his interest. The war 
operations for a long time prevented his carrying his plan into 
execution. When at length he communicated to a few friends 
his determination to visit Awashonks, and applied to the govern- 
ment of Rhode Island for a permit, they were astonished at his 
presumption and refused to grant him permission, deeming it 
madness in him thus to throw away his valuable life. He wished 
to take with him a man who was versed in the Indian language, 
but the government utterly refused him that liberty. Firm in his 
daring resolution, he took his own man and two friendly Indians 
only, and providing himself with a bottle of rum and a roll of 
tobacco, departed for the camp of Awashonks at Sogkonate, now 
Woods-Hole. The chief had been apprised of his intention, and 
the few Indians which he first met gave him their hands in token 
of friendship; they pointed to a retired place to hold a consul- 
tation, which he had no sooner reached, than he found himself 
entirely encompassed by a body of armed savages, who rose up 
from the high grass and bushes where they had been placed. 
These warriors were in complete warlike array with their faces 
painted and hair trimmed. None but a heart of adamant, one 
would suppose, could withstand such an awful scene. But 
Church, with uncommon presence of mind and astern counten- 
ance, addressed himself to Awashonks, saying that he understood 
she desired to see him about making peace with the English. 
She said, 'yes.' Church then desired that her men might lay 
aside their arms, as was customary while discoursing of peace. 
This was immediately complied with, but caused much murmur- 
ing in their ranks. Having set down together, Church pro- 
duced his bottle of rumy and drank to the chief and passed it to 
her; but she desired him to drink again, and watched him nar- 
rowly to see whether he swallowed; he assured her that there 
was no poison in it, and she then partook freely of the contents 



INDIAN HISTORY. 373 

of the bottle, and passed it among her attendants. The tobacco 
being next distributed, all appeared to be happy, and to unite in 
social glee. But this was soon interrupted by a lusty lellow, 
who of m sudden approached and raised his war-club to beat out 
the brains of Mr. Church, but he was seized and his club wrest- 
ed from him. His plea was, that his brother had been killed in 
battle, and that Church was the man who killed him, and he 
would have his blood; but Church explained and endeavored to 
pacify him. An agreem.ent was now concluded, and Awashonks 
agreed to serve the English 'in whatever way she was able,' 
provided ' Plymouth would firmly engage to them, that they and 
all of them with their wives and children should have their lives 
spared, and none of them transported out of the country. , The 
chief captain now came forward, and expressed the great respect 
which he had for Captain Church, and said, ' Sir, if you will 
please to accept of me and my men, and will head us, we will 
fight for you, and will help you to Philip's head before the In- 
dian corn be ripe.' The result of these transactions was alast- 
ing friendship between Awashonks and Captain Church and the 
English government. 

Counbitant, or Corbitant. This distinguished Sachem resided 
at Mattapoyst, on a neck of land in the present town of Swan- 
sey, or Rochester. He was considered as inimical to the Eng- 
lish settlers, viewing them as intruders and enemies to his race, 
and being well aware that should the English be permitted to 
obtain a permanent possession of the country, the natives must 
eventually abandon it or b§ altogether extirpated. It does not 
appear that this Sachem was in any way endowed with power- 
ful means of warfare. In the first part of this volume will be 
found some account of this Sachem, as related by Governor 
Winslow, who visited him in his cabin. 

The JYcmsets were a small tribe occupying Cape Cod. Their 
Sachem was Aspinct. He manifested his friendly disposition to 
the English settlers as early as July, 1621, when John Biliing- 
ton, a boy, was lost in the woods. See page 41. 

Canonchet, was a head Sachem of the Narragansets, and a 
great warrior. He commanded a party of Indians in 1675, 
who killed Capt. Pierce, of Scituate, and most of his company. 
Soon after this exploit, he was captured by Capt. Denison, of 
Stonington. When a youthful soldier of the company came up 
to him and asked several questions,—' You too much child, no 
understand matters of war,' said the Sachem ; Met your cap- 
tain come, him I will answer.' When informed that it was de- 
termined to put him to death, he said, ' He liked it well, that 
he should die before his heart was soft, or he had spoken any 
thing unworthy himself.' 
32 



^74 INDIAN HISTORY. 

There was one instance which occurred in about 1630, in 
which the Indians manifested extreme kindness of feeling 
towards the English. ' Richard Garrett, and several others, 
from Boston, were shipwrecked on Cape Cod. Some* of them 
died of their hardships. The Indians buried the dead with 
much difficulty, the ground being hard frozen, and literally 
nursed the survivors back to life; and after curing and strength- 
ening them, secured the remains of their dead companions 
against wild beasts, and then guided them fifty miles through 
the woods to Plymouth.' — [Baylies.) 

Alexander, was the immediate successor of his father, Ousa- 
mequin, and inherited his dominions and his seat at Mount Hope; 
but he was devoid of his father's good qualities, and his career 
was short, and his end disastrous. All that is known of his 
life and character, is comprised in the following unfortunate 
transaction. It appears that in the year 1662, Alexander had 
given cause to suspect, not only that he was unfriendly, but that 
he was actually contriving mischief against the English; and, 
moreover, according to report, he had solicited the Narragan- 
sets to engage with him in his designed rebellion. Hereupon 
Captain Wiilet, who lived near to Mount Hope, was appointed 
to confer with him, and to desire him to attend the next court in 
Plymouth for their satisfaction, and his own vindication; he 
seemed to take the massage in good part, professing that the 
Narragansets, who he said were his enemies, had put an abuse 
upon him, and he readily promised to attend at the next court. 
But when the day for his appearanq^ arrived, he went over to 
the Narragansets, his pretended enemies. This circumstance 
could not but increase the suspicion of his unfaithfulness, and 
the Governor and Magistrates ordered Major Josiah Winslow 
to take a party of armed men and bring Alexander to Plymouth 
for examination. The Major accordingly took ten men from 
Marshfield, intending to add to his number in the towns nearer 
to Mount Hope. But when they were about midway between 
Plymouth and Bridgewater, at a hunting house, they found 
Alexander and many of his men, (Hubhard says eighty,) well 
armed, but tlieir guns were outside of the house. Major Wins- 
low, having possessed himself of the Indians' arms, entered the 
house and accosted the Sachem, and made him acquainted with 
his instructions. He fell into a raging passion, and insisted 
that the Governor had no reason to credit rumors, and to send 
for him in that manner, nor would he go to Plymouth but when 
he saw cause. The Major replied, that his breach of word 
touching his appearance at Plymouth court, and at the same 
time going to the Narragansets, his pretended enemies, in- 



INDIAN HISTORY. 375 

creased the jealousy concerning him. In the firmest tone, 
Major Winslow commanded the Sachem to submit to his or- 
ders, promising him kind treatment if he complied, but with a 
pistol at his breast, threatening him with instant death if he 
again refused. Upon this, his interpreter, a discreet Indian, 
knowing his Sachem's passionate disposition, interposed and 
prevailed on him to submit, requesting only that he might go 
like a Sachem, attended by his men, which, though hazardous, 
was granted. The weather being hot, the Major offered him 
the use of a horse; but his squaw and other Indian wojnen be- 
ing in company, he said he could go on foot as well as they, 
provided that the horses might be made to conform with the slow 
step of those on foot. The party rested several times by the 
-way, and Alexander and his Indians were refreshed with food by 
the English; and the royal prisoner was treated with all proper 
respect and attention. Having arrived at Marshfield, Major 
Winslow, instead of sending him to prison, took him and his 
train to his own house, and afforded them entertainment till 
Governor Prince could arrive from his residence at Eastham. 
* Yet,' says Dr. I. Mather, ' proud Alexander, vexing and fret- 
ting in his spirit that such a check was imposed on him, he sud- 
denly fell sick of a fever.' When sick, he was nursed in the 
tenderest manner, and Dr. Fuller was desired to prescribe for 
his relief. But, as his sickness continued, he was, by the de- 
sire of his friends, permitted to return home, on engaging to 
appear at the next court at Plymouth. Soon after his return, 
(but according to Hubbard before he got half way home,) he 
died. The foregoing is the purport of Dr. I. Mather's account 
of this transaction, and the same is corroborated, \^ithout es- 
sential variation, by Hubbard's history of New England. But 
it has since appeared, that there was a document in reserve, 
which places this unhappy affair in a different point of light. 

The document referred to is a letter, but without date, writ- 
ten by the Rev. John Cotton, of Plymouth, to Dr. Mather, 
which has recently been published by Judge Davis, in his edi- 
tion of Morton's Memorial, page 426, and is as follows: 

' Major Bradford (who was with Mr. Winslow when Alexan- 
der was surprised) confidently assures me, that in the narrative 
of de Jilexandro^ there are many mistakes, and fearing lest you 
should, through mis-information, print some mistakes on that 
subject, from his mouth I this write. Reports being here, that 
Mexander was plotting, or privy to plots against the English, 
authority sent to him to come down. He came not. Where- 
upon Major Winslow was sent to fetch him. Major Bradford 
with some oth&rs went with him. At Munponset river, a place 



376 INDIAN HISTORY. 

not many miles hence they found JllexanS,e)\ with about eight 
men and sundry squaws. He was there about getting canoes. 
He and his men were at breakfast under their shelter, their 
guns being without. They saw the English coming, but con- 
tinued eating; and Mr. Winslow telling their business, Alexan- 
der freely and readily without the least hesitancy consented ta 
go; giving his reason why he came not to the court before, viz: 
because he waited for Captain Willet's return from the Dutch, 
being desirous to speak with him first. They brought him to 
Mr. Collier's that day, and Governor Prince living remote, at 
Eastham, those few magistrates who were at hand issued the 
matter peaceably and immediately dismissed Alexander to re- 
turn home, which he did part of the way; but in two or three 
days after, he returned and went to Major Winslow's house, 
intending thence to travel into the Bay and so home; but at 
the Major's house he was taken very sick, and was by water, 
conveyed to Major Bradford's, and thence carried upon the 
shoulders of his men to Tetequit river, and thence in canoes 
home, and in about two or three days after died.' 

The discrepancy between the contents of Mr. Cotton's letter 
and the narrative which Dr. Mather had formerly published, 
appears altogether irreconcilable, and it will be found difficult 
for the historian to transmit to posterity a just and satisfactory 
statement of all the circumstances pertaining to this subject. 

King Philip and Ph\lip''s War. — Philip, alias Mektcomet was 
the second son of Massasoit, and after the death of bis brother 
Alexander in 1662, he succeeded as chief of the VVampanoags. 
He occupied the celebrated place called Montaup, or Mount 
Hope in the vicinity of Bristol, Rhode Island. This eminence 
is very steep on ail sides, and a huge rock of a singular form is 
attached to the mountain, having the appearance of an immense 
dome. Philip inherited many good traits of the character of 
Massasoit his father, but to these were superadded the noble 
qualities of a bold and courageous warrior, and his p<>pularity 
was so great, that when the Pokanoket government was con- 
ferred on him, a multitude of his Sachems and people assem- 
bled, and the event was celebrated by uncommon rejoicings and 
revelry. According to a received tradition King Ph>lip went in 
1665 to Nantucket with his retinue to kill an Indian by the 
name of John Gibbs, for committing sacrilege in mentioning 
the name of a deceased Sachem contrary to the Indian laws. 
He landed at the west end of the Island, intending to travel 
along shore to the east part of the Island where the criminal 
lived, who, having got information from one of his friends, fled 
to town and was concealed by Thomas Macy. The English 



iPffiUN HisTORt. 377 

inhabitants then assembled, held a treaty with Philip and bought 
of him the criminal, and gave all the money that there was on 
the Island at that time, being 19 shillings, and the King return- 
ed in peace and was satisfied. One of the earliest measures of 
King Philip was, to appear with his uncle before the Plymouth 
court, following the example of his father and brother. (See 
page 119.) "He expressed an earnest wish for the continu- 
ance of peace and amity; and pledged himself, as the court did 
also upon the other hand, to use all suitable m.easures for effect- 
ing that desirable purpose. For several years after this, the 
intercourse between the two parties went on, ostensibly, as it 
had done in former times, though probably not without some 
distrust upon both sides. The first public interruption of this 
harmony occurred in 1671, during which season Philip was 
heard to complain, openly, of certain encroachments by the 
English upon his hunting grounds. 

About the same time, rumors were circulated that his sub- 
jects frequently assembled at various places in unwonted num- 
bers; and were repairing their guns, and sharpening their 
hatchets. The Plymouth Government were alarmed. They 
sent messengers to communicate with the Massachusetts Gov- 
ernment, and at the same time other messengers to Philip, not 
**to fetch him before the courts," as in the case of his brother, 
but to ascertain his intentions. lie seems to have paid a dig- 
nified regard to this measure. On the 10th of April, a mes- 
sage was received from him, inviting the officers of the Ply- 
mouth Government to a conference. It was received by the 
latter at Taunton, where also were several gentlemen, des- 
patched by the Massachusetts Government, with instructions 
to mediate between the contending parties. Governor Prince, 
of Plymouth, sent word back to Philip, who was tarrying 
meanwhile at what is now called Three-mile river, about four 
miles from Taunton Green — that he was heartily disposed to 
treat with him, and expected that the Sachem would come for- 
ward for that purpose; and his personal safety was guaranteed 
in case he should do so. Philip so far complied with the re- 
quest, as to advance a considerable distance nearer the village. 
He then stationed himself at a place called Grossman's Mill, 
placed sentinels on a hill in his rear, and again despatched mes- 
sengers to the Governor, desiring an interview. This the town's 
people, who could scarcely be restrained from falling forthwith 
upon the Indian party, would not permit. At last the Massa- 
chusetts Commissioners, volunteering to take the supposed haz- 
ard upon themselves, went to Philip and persuaded him to con- 
sent to a conference. This was on condition that his men 
32* 



378 INDIAN HISTORY. 

should accompany him, and that the business should be done in 
the meeting-house, one side of which was to be reserved for the 
Wampanoags, and the other for the English. The council took 
place agreeably to these arrangements, in the old meeting-house 
of Taunton. The English stood upon one side, solemn and 
stern in countenance, as they were formal in garb; and oppo- 
site to them, a line of Indian warriors, arrayed for battle; 
their long black hair hanging about their necks, and their eyes 
gleaming covertly with a flame of suspicion and defiance 
scarcely to be suppressed. Philip alone was their orator. He 
denied that he entertained any hostile design against the Eng- 
lish, and promptly explained his preparations for war, as intend- 
ed for defence against the Narragansets." But such argu- 
ments and evidence was produced as to prove his assertions to 
be entirely false.* This greatly surprised and intimidated him, 
and he then affected to admit all that was alleged against him, 
and though he refused to make compensation tor past aggres- 
sions, he and four of his counsellors subscribed an acknowledg- 
ment that he had violated and broken the covenant by which 
his father and brother before him submitted themselves to the 
King's Majesty of England, and to the Colony of New Ply- 
mouth, by taking up arms against them. After making a prop- 
er confession of his unfaithfulness and folly, he solemnly re- 
newed the covenant with his ancient friends, and the friends of 
his father, and as a pledge of his future faithfulness, he agreed 
to resign up to the government of New Plymouth all his Eng- 
lisharms, to be kept for their security, so long asthey might see 
reason. 

There can be no doubt but Philip had, at the time of signing 
this confession, war with the English in contemplation, and that 
the confession was a mere finesse that he might gain time to 
complete his preparations. 

In August of the same year, Philip made a visit to the Mas- 
sachusetts government, who he knew were u.mpires in this af- 
fair, and had the address to press on them the belief, that he 
had no hostile designs against the English, and the parties then 
agreed to the following articles of accommodation, September 
19th, 1671. 

1. We, Philip and my council, and my subjects do acknowl- 
edge ourselves subject to his Majesty the King of England, and 
the government of New Plymouth and to their laws. 

* For the above quotntion, I am indebted to a very respectable 
work, entitled " Lives of the Indians, by B. B. Thacher, Esq." Vol. 
i. p. 146. 



INDIAN HISTORY. 379 

2. I am willing and promise to pay unto the government of 
Plymouth one hundred pounds in such things as I have; but I 
would entreat the favor, that I may have three years to pay it 
in, for as much as I cannot do it at present. 

3. I do promise to send unto the governor, or whom he shall 
appoint, five wolves' heads, if I can get them, or as many as I 
can procure until they come to five wolves yearly. 

4. If any difference fall between the English and my people, 
then I do promise to repair to the governor of Plymouth to rec- 
tify the difference between us. 

5. I do promise not to make war with any of the Indian 
tribes, but with the governor of Plymouth's approbation. 

6. I promise not to dispose of any of the lands that I have 
at present, but by the approbation of the Governor of Ply- 
mouth. P'or the true performance of the promises, I do hereby 
bind myself, and such of my council as are present, ourselves, 
our heirs and our successors, faithfully, in witness thereof we 
have hereunto subscribed our hands, the day and year above 
written. 

Philip and three others subscribed 
to the above by their marks. 

In presence of the Court and 
divers Magistrates, Sfc. 

It was not probably long after the foregoing agreement, that 
Philip addressed to Governor Prince the following letter, though 
it is without date. 

To the much honored governer mr. thomas prince dwelling at 
plimouth. 
honorored Sir 

King philip desires to let you understand that he 
could not come to the court for torn his interpreter has a pain 
in his back that he could not travel so far, and philip's sister is 
very sick, philip would intreat that favor of you and any of the 
majestrates if any english or engians speak about any land he 
pray you to give them no answer at all the last summer he made 
that promise with you that he would not sell no land in seven 
years time for that he would have no english trouble, him before 
that time he has not forgot that you promise him he will come 
asune as possible he can to speak with you and so I rest your 
very loving friend philip dwelling at mount hope nek. 

The late Isaac Lothrop, Esq., of Plymouth possessed the 
above original letter from Philip, which was probably penned 
by Sassaman his secretary. It was published in the Massachu- 



380 INDIAN HISTORY. 

setts Magazine, for 1789. Judge Davis's edi. of Memorial, page 
288. 

All these precautions however served but to protract the 
commencement of the contest, it having become perfectly evi- 
dent that either one or the other of the parties must very shortly 
acquire the supreme dominion; and that either the white or the 
red people must yield. 

Of the war which ensued, and which is so well known in the 
history of the Colonies as Philijy's War, we have the authority 
of Church, Hubbard, Mather, and others for the following 
details. 

There appears to have been no open hostile preparations, nor 
interruption of harmonious intercourse between the parties dur- 
ing the period of two or three years after signing the foregoing 
agreement by Philip, ' but during that time,' says Mr. Baylies, 
* Philip had the enterprise to undertake, and the address to ma- 
ture one of the greatest plans that was ever conceived by a 
savage, for the purpose of exterminating the English, it pro- 
posed a general union amongst the Indians of New England; — 
of this confederacy he was to be chief. Though the Sachem 
of a petty tribe, he raised himself to a prouder eminence than 
was ever attained by the aboriginal race in North America. 
The Narragansets had engaged to join Philip with their whole 
strength which amounted to an effective force of 4000 warriors. 
The spring of 1676, was the period fixed for commencing this 
great undertaking, but the plot was prematurely developed, 
and Philip was forced to commence the war before he was pre- 
pared, and under many disadvantages.' 

The first open hostilites were caused by the tragical fate of 
John Sassamon. He was one of the praying Indians who had 
received a tolerable education, was employed as an Indian 
preacher and schoolmaster. According to Hubbard, he was 'a 
cunning and plausible Indian well skilled in the English lan- 
guage.' He possessed however but little stability, and left the 
English on account of some dissatisfaction and joined Philip. 
Dr. I. Mather says that ' apostatizing from the profession of 
Christianity he lived like a heathen in the capacity of Secreta- 
ry to Kinff Philip.' But it was not long before he deserted his 
post and returned again to the English bearing with him such 
evident signs of repentance, that he was reconciled to the pray- 
ing Indians, and baptised, and received as a member into one 
of the Indian churches; 'yea' says Mather, 'and employed as 
an instructor amongst them every Lord's day.' Sassamon be- 
ing the confidential Secretary of JPhilip, was doubtless entrusted 
with his secrets, and he informed the governor of the Sachem's 



INDIAN HISTORT.. 381 

hostile intentions, and of the plot which was ripening for the 
extermination of the English; but enjoining the strictest secre- 
cy, well aware that his life would be the forfeit if detected by 
Philip. The Governor and his council, resolved to send for 
the Sachem to appear at Plymouth, that inquiry might be made 
into the truth of the allegations. But he did not think proper 
to obey the summons, and it was soon discovered that Sassa- 
mon was murdered. His body was found under the ice in As- 
sawomset pond in Middleborough; his hat and gun were left on 
the ice to prevent suspicion, but the body being taken up and 
examined the neck was found broken, and other marks of .vio- 
lence were discovered. An Indian *iamed Tobias, one of Phil- 
ip's counsellors, his son, and another Indian were apprehended 
as the perpetrators of the murder. They were tried at a court 
holden at Plymouth in June 1675, six grave Indians being on 
the jury. The culprits were found guilty, condemned and ex- 
ecuted at Plymouth. One of them before his execution con- 
fessed himself guilty, but the other two denied all knowledge of 
the act to their last breath. There was one point of evidence 
given by Rev. Dr. I. Mather, that w^ould not at the present day, 
have the smallest influence with any jury. ' When Tobias,' 
says the learned Divine, 'came near the body, it fell a bleeding on 
fresh, as ii had been newly slain; albeit, it was buried a consider- 
able time before that.''* Here the reader may pause while I of- 
fer the following from Mr. Drake's Indian Biography, (new 
edition.) ' It is an error that the jury that found them guilty 
were half Indians.' He cites from the records as follows: — 
* It was judged very expedient by the court, that, together with 
this English jury above named, some of the most indifferent, 
grave and sage Indians should be admitted to be with the said 
jury, and to help to consult and advise with, of and concerning 
the premises: their names are as foUoweth, viz: one called by 
an English name Hope, and Maskippague, Wannoo, George 
Wampye and Acanootus; these fully concurred with the said 
jury in their verdict.' The names of the white men composing 
the jury were William Sabine, William Crocker, Edward Stur- 
gis, William Brooks, Nathaniel Winslow, John Wadsworth, 
Andrew Ringe, Robert Vixon, John Done, Jonathan Bangs, 
Jonathan Shaw, and Benjamin Higgins. 

Thus it appears that the jury was composed of twelve white 
men conjointly with four Indians. Their verdict was, 'Wee 
of the jury one and all, both English and Indians doe jointly 

*The body was buried and after some days disinterred that it 
might be more particularly examined. 



382 INDIAxV HISTORY. 

and with one consent agree upon a verdict.' 'This execution 
so exasperated King Philip, that from that day after he studied 
to be revenged on the English, judging that the English au- 
thority had nothing to do to hang an Indian for killing another.' 

It was the intention of Philip that the war should take place 
the next year, when he and his allies would he fully prepared; 
but immediately after the above unhappy event, great prepara- 
tions were made on both sides for a sanguinary warfare. Early 
in the spring of 1675, the Pokanokets were observed in arms 
about Mount Hope, and the neighboring tribes were collecting, 
and^it was not long before a party of Indians offered some in- 
sult to an Englishman at Swansey, who discharged his musket 
and wounded one of them. Thus the tragedy was opened 
June 24th, 1675, upon a fast day, and the people were fired 
upon on their return from meeting by the Indians. One person 
was killed, and two wounded; two others, going for a surgeon, 
were killed, and in another part of the town six others were 
killed the same day. To ravage, burn and destroy, seemed 
now to be the design of the sava^je tribes. The town of Swan- 
sey, a part of Taunton, Middleborough, and Dartmouth, were 
soon burnt and the inhabitants dispersed. Philip had formed 
alliances with such' numerous tribes of savages, that he was 
enabled to assemble a formidable force, menacing all New Eng- 
land with destruction. The English now resorted to all possi- 
ble means for defence. In every town houses were surrounded 
with palisades and strongly garrisoned for the security of fami- 
lies, yet tragical scenes kept the inhabitants in constant alarm. 
Dwelling houses, although garrisoned, were consumed, and 
men, women and children cruelly butchered by savage hands. 
An armed force among the colonies was deemed indispensable, 
and troops were raised in the following proportion: Massachu- 
setts Colony, 557; Plymouth, 158; Connecticut, 315. Gen- 
eral Josiah Winslow was appointed commander-in-chief of the 
army, and Captain James Cudworth commanded the Plymouth 
forces. The instructions to General Winslow, by the commis- 
sioners of the United Colonies, were as follow: 

' You are, at the time appointed, to march with all convenient 
speed, with the forces under your command, to the Narragan- 
set country, or to the place where the head-quarters or chief 
rendezvous of the enemy is known to be. And having ac- 
quainted your officers and soldiers with your commission and 
power, you shall require their obedience thereunto; and see that 
they be governed according to rules military, that all profane- 
ness and disorder in your camp and quarters be avoided as much 
as in you lyeth, and impartially punish the breaking forth there- 
of in any. 



INDIAN HISTORY. 383 

* You are to see that the worship of God be I^ept up and duly 
attended in the army, by daily prayer and invocation of his 
name, and preaching of his word, as you have opportunity; and 
the Sabbath be not profaned, but that, as. much as in you lies, 
and the emergency of your services will admit, you take care 
it be duly sanctified, and your ministers respect it. 

' You shall, by all means possible, endeavor to secure any of 
our English plantations, or any of the colonies, that may be 
pressed and endangered by the enemy, and improve your utter- 
most care, caution and diligence, by policy and force, to dis- 
cover, pursue, encounter, and, by the help of God, to vanquish 
and subdue the cruel, barbarous and treacherous enemy, wheth- 
er Philip Sachem and his Wampanoags, or the Narragansets, 
his undoubted allies, or any other of their friends and abettors. 

^ In pursuance hereof, we also advise and order, that you be 
very careful in your marches in or near the enemy's country, by 
keeping out scouts and forlorns before the army, to prevent 
and avoid the ambuscades of the enemy, that sentinels be at all 
times careful of their duty, and all soldiers be made constantly 
to keep their arms very fix and clean, fit for service. 

* And that you endeavor as silently and suddenly to surprise 
the enemy as you can, and if possible draw or force them to en- 
gagement, and therein to do valiantly for the honor of God and 
our nation, and the interest of the country; and you encourage 
valor in any, and severely punish cowardice. 

^ That if the enemy offer treaty, you trust them not to the loss 
of any promising advantage; nor take their words, or subscrip- 
tion to any engagement, without further assurance of arms, good 
hostages, &c. 

'You shall consult those commanders and gentlemen appoint- 
ed to be of your council in matters of moment, when opportu- 
nity permits, for the well management of the design. 

'You shall diligently improve your time for the speedy effect- 
ing of this expedition, and use all means possible to cut off and 
hinder supplies of provision to the enemy and to secure your 
own. 

' That you order the commissaries for provision and stores to 
be careful there be no waste nor embezzlement therein, nor 
want of what is meet to any. 

' And you are, from time to time, to give us full and particular 
intelligence of your proceedings, and how the Lord shall please 
to deal with you in this expedition. 

General Winslow was peculiarly qualified for the important 
station to which he was appointed. He possessed ability and 
integrity, and his bravery and heroism were tempered with pru- 
dence and discretion. 



384 INDIAN HISTORY. 

A ravaging warfare was kept up by the Indians during the 
summer, by which several towns were destroyed, and many in- 
habitants slain or captured. At the close of the year 1675, the 
English were reduced to the dreadful alternative of an active 
campaign against the perfidious and powerful enemy in the depth 
of winter. It was no longer doubted that the Narraganset tribe 
was in secret alliance with Philip, and united with him in the 
plan to attack and destroy the whole English settlements, hav- 
ing become bold and open in their conduct. The commission- 
ers of the United Colonies, deeming it of the highest import- 
ance to anticipate their enemies, and frustrate their plans, or- 
dered that the army under General Winslow should be pre- 
pared for active service by the 10th of December. The second 
day of December was appointed to be ' observed and kept as 
a solemn day of prayer and humiliation, to supplicate the- Lord's 
pardoning mercy and compassion towards his poor people, and 
for success in the endeavors for repelling the rage of the en- 
emy.' The army consisted of from 1500 to 2000 men, includ- 
ing volunteers and Indians, and a troop of horse, under com- 
mand of Capt. Thomas Prentice. The Massachusetts forces 
were divided into six companies, commanded by Captains Mose- 
ly, Gardiner, Davenport, Oliver, and Johnson, and Major Ap- 
pleton. Those of Connecticut were commanded by Major Treat, 
who had under him Capt. Seily, Gallop, Mason, Watts, and 
Marshall. The Plymouth forces were commanded by Major 
William Bradford as chief, and Capt. John Gorham. It was 
unfortunate that Capt, Church, in consequence of some previous 
misunderstanding with the government, was prevented having a 
command on this occasion; but, at the particular desire of the 
commander-in-chief, he acted as a volunteer. The Narragan- 
set country, in which were to be the war operations, was almost 
an entire wilderness, and Philip's fort was located in South Kings- 
ton, Rhode Island, in an immense swamp, in the centre of which 
was a piece of high land, comprising about five or six acres. 
The fortification was formed by high palisades encircling the 
whole of the high land. The palisades were encompassed by 
a thick and almost impenetrable hedge of fallen trees, with their 
branches pointing outwards, of almost a rod in width. At one 
corner there was an opening, where a large fallen tree was 
placed, rising four or five feet from the ground, but this entrance 
was defended by a sort of block-house, and by flankers at the 
sides. The common entrance into this fort was by passing on a 
tree which had been thrown over a body of deep water between 
the fort and the main land, which could be done only in single 
file. Within this strong enclosure, the Indians had erected 



INDIAN HISTORY. 385 

about five hundred wigwams of superior construction, intended 
for the winter quarters of their whole people, men, women and 
children. Here they had deposited a large quantity of pro- 
visions, and baskets and tubs of corn were so piled one upon 
another as to afford additional defence against the English bul- 
lets. It was estimated that not less than 3000 people had collect- 
ed here as their safe retreat. The warriors were armed with 
bows and arrows, muskets and tomahawks. On the 18th of 
December, 1675, General Winslow's army marched to attack 
Philip and his Narraganset allies in their strong fort; the weath- 
er was cold and stormy, and the snow more than ankle deep on 
the ground. The house on their route in which they expected 
to quarter that night, was burnt down by the Indians before 
their arrival, and tliey were destitute of shelter during the night. 
At the dawn of day they resumed their march of fifteen miles, 
and at one o'clock reached the margin of the swamp, and hav- 
ing no shelter from the inclemency of the weather, and being 
short of provisions, they resolved to make an immediate attack. 
Not an Englishman was acquainted with the situation of the In- 
dian fort; but it was their good fortune that a few days before, 
about thirty-five of Philip's men were captured by Capt. Mose- 
ly, among whom was one named Peter ^ who turned traitor and 
undertook to guide the army through the intricate paths to the 
seat of his Sachem. The assault commenced, the Indians at 
the margin of the swamp were driven to their strong hold, and 
the troops without regular order rushed impetuously to the bar- 
riers of the fort; the officers and men were intermixed, but they 
faced death with astonishing boldness and courage. The gal- 
lant Captains, Johnson and Davenport, with a number of their 
men, were soon seen to fall, and as one after another was swept 
off* at the narrow passage by the enemy's fire, others supplied 
the place of the slain. Overwhelmed by the deadly fire, there 
was a momentary recoil, and the troops throwing themselves 
down with their faces to the ground, the bullets passed over 
them. Two other companies advancing, were also compelled to 
retieat; but animated by the exhortations and exertions of Gen- 
eral Winslowand Major Appleton, the soldiers were rallied and 
again resumed the conflict. A few officers and men had now 
forced their way into the fort, and here commenced personal 
combat hand to hand. At this moment a voice was heard, 
* they run ! they run .'' This operated like enchantment on the 
English, and a general rush through the barriers ensued; the 
Indians were driven from their posts at all points, and from wig- 
wam to wigwam, in great confusion. An immense slaughter 
took place; neither men^ women nor children were spared; all 
33 



386 INDIAN HISTORY, 

were hewn down, and the ground was encumbered with heaps 
of the slain. In the midst of this awful fight, fire was commu- 
nicated to their wigwams, when the howlings and yells of the 
savages were mingled with the roar of musketry, the raging of 
consuming fire, and the screams of the women and children, 
altogether forming a scene inconceivably appalling to humanity. 
The battle continued for three hours with unexampled ferocity 
and obstinacy; quarters were neither asked nor received, but 
carnage and death were the order of the day. The whole army, 
oflScers and men, fought with undaunted courage; the captains 
led their men to the conflict, and continued at their head till 
they received the fatal ball. Captain Church, always brave 
and never inactive, by permission led the second party that en- 
tered the fort, and while within, he was struck at the same in- 
stant with three bullets from a party of the enemy. He received 
a severe wound on his thigh, and another slight wound, but the 
third bullet struck against a pair of thick woollen mittens, which 
were doubled in his pocket, which saved him from a third wound. 
For some time after the fort was in possession of the English, 
the combatants in various parts of the swamp continued the 
work of slaughter. The English being masters of the fort, it 
became a question whether to hold possession of it for the pres- 
ent, or to abandon it immediately. General Winslow and Cap- 
tain Church were decidedly in favor of holding possession; as 
the darkness of night was approaching, the troops might find 
shelter in- the wigwams that were not burnt, and avail them- 
selves of the Indians' provisions, which they greatly needed. 
But this measure was violently and very improperly opposed by 
one of the Captains and a surgeon, probably from the appre- 
hension that the Indians might rally their forces, and drive them 
from the fort in their turn. The surgeon asserted that unless 
the wounded were removed that night, it could not be effected 
the next day, when their wounds would be inflamed and pain- 
ful; and turning to Captain Church, whose blood was then flow- 
ing from his wounds, impudently said to him, ' that if he gave 
such advice, he should bleed to death like a dog, before he 
would endeavor to staunch his blood.' It was now decided to 
quit the ground, which was done with some precipitation, leav- 
ing eight of their dead in the fort. It was indeed a cruel dilem- 
ma, affer fighting three hours, to be compelled to march sixteen 
miles through the snow, and in a most boisterous night, before 
they could halt, and the wounded could be dressed; and it is 
not strange that many of the wounded died before they could 
reach their destined quarters. Thus ended the memorable 
.Xarraganset Swamp Fight; and the victory on the side of the 



INDIAN HISTORY. 387 

English was purchased at the high price of eighty men killed, 
and one hundred and fifty wounded. Six brave captains were 
killed, viz.: Davenport, Gardiner, Johnson, Gallop, Seily, and 
Marshall. Lieutenant Upharn was mortally wounded, and Cap- 
tain John Gorham, of Barnstable, died of a fever on the expedi- 
tion. The number of Indians slain is uncertain; but Hubbard 
says it was confessed by Potock, a great counsellor amongst 
them, who was taken and executed, that seven hundred fight- 
ing men were slain, and three hundred wounded, the most of 
whom died. The number of old men, women and children, 
burnt in their wigwams, and that died from hunger and cold, 
must have been immense. 

When General Winslow arrived at his quarters at Wickford, 
four hundred of his soldiers besides the wounded were rendered 
unfit for duty, and many of them were frost-bitten. The snow 
that fell during that night rendered travelling almost impracti- 
cable. 

An Englishman, named Joshua Tift, a stupid, uneducated 
man, who had abandoned his countrymen, and deserted to the 
Indians, married an Indian woman, and conformed himself to 
their habits. This man was captured by Captain Fenner, and 
after confessing that he had supplied the Indians with powder 
and had fought on their side in the fort, was condemned to 
death, hung, and quartered, as a traitor. This miserable wretch 
was found as ignorant as an heathen, never having heard the 
name of Jesits Christ. 

In the spring of 1676, a predatory warfare was kept up by 
Philip and his followers in various parts of the country. On 
the 12th of March, the garrison house of William Clark, at Eel 
river, in the town of Plymouth, was attacked by a party of In- 
dians on the Sabbath, when most of the men were gone to meet- 
ing, and eleven persons were killed, and the house consumed. 
The house, with two or three others, had been fortified for the 
security of families in that neighborhood. It stood on the west 
side of the road, near the spot where the dwelling house of the 
Rev. Mr. Whitmore has recently been erected. Among the 
sufferers in this tragedy was a boy, who received several toma- 
hawk wounds on the skull, and was left for dead, but he recov- 
ered, and afterwards wore a plate of silver over the wound, 
from which he was distinguished by the name of Silver-HeacJed 
Tom during life. Totoson and Tispequin, two noted chiefs in 
Philip's war, were engaged in this cruel massacre, although 
they had often received much kindness at Clark's house. 

May 11th, the Indians made an attack on a settlement in that 
part of Plymoutli which is now Halifax. The inhabitants being 



388 INDIAN HISTORY. 

suddenly alarmed, fled with their families; the savages burnt 
eleven houses and five barns; and two days after, seven houses 
and two barns. 

Captain Church, although only a volunteer in the service, 
was constantly alert, even when he could not mount his horse 
without assistance, in consequence of his wounds. At onetime 
a friendly Mohegan captured one of Philip'^s Indians, and 
brought him before the General. Some of the GeneraFs at- 
tendants proposed that he should be tortured, in order to elicit 
a discovery of the haunts of his countrymen; against this propo- 
sition Church vehemently remonstrated, and this barbarous pro- 
ceeding was prevented, but the captive was given up to the Mo- 
hegan, who was permitted to put him to death. Desirous to 
avoid the scene, Church withdrew. The Mohegan, striking at 
his victim with his tomahawk, missed his blow, and the weapon 
escaped from his hand; the prisoner broke from his keepers, 
and ran directly upon Church, who was standing amongst the 
baggage horses. In the impulse of the moment Church seized 
him, but the Indian, being nearly naked, eluded his grasp, and 
ran on; although Church was much disabled by his wound^s, he 
pursued, and the Indian stumbling, fell to the ground. Church 
seized him again, and again the Indian escaped, still pursued 
by Church, who at length seized him by his hair and held him 
fast. At this time they were at some distance from the others, 
and a deadly struggle commenced. The Indian was stout and 
athletic, and Church was weakened by his wounds; yet his in- 
domitable spirit enabled him to maintain the contest with some 
equality. The ice began to crack, and steps were heard; both 
were uncertain whether of friend or foe. It was the Mohegan; 
but it was now so dark, that the combatants could not be dis- 
criminated. The Mohegan, ascertaining his victim by his 
nakedness, drove his tomahawk into his brains, and relieved 
Church from his perilous situation. 

On the 1 1th of July, Philip attempted to surprise Taunton, 
but was repulsed. Captain Church was in constant pursuit of 
this cunning Sachem, who, in his turn, used many stratagems 
not only to elude, but to cut off his antagonist, and followed 
him from place to place without success, but with the loss of 
many of his people. Some soldiers from Bridgewater fell upon 
Philip's camp, near Taunton river, July 31st, and killed ten war- 
riors; but Philip, having disguised himself, made his escape. 
His uncle, Akompoin, was among the slain, and his own sister 
was captured. On the 1st of August, Church attacked his head 
quarters, killed and took about 130 of his people, but the wily 
Sachem again escaped; but his wife, and son, about nine years 



INDIAN HISTORY. 389 

bid, fell into the hands of Captain Church, and were brought to 
Plymouth. Philip, although he had lost most of his warriors 
and friends, and was left almost alone, had the address for a 
long time to elude the vigilance of his pursuers. At length, 
finding himself harrassed to the last extremity, in July he re- 
sorted to a thick swamp near Mount Hope for concealment, and 
while here, put to death one of his men for advising him to make 
peace. 

On Saturday morning, August 12th, Captain Church ap- 
proached with a party of volunteers, surrounded the swamp on 
all sides, and so disposed of his men as to render his escape 
impossible. Church then ordered Captain Golding to rush into 
the swamp; upon which, Philip, finding himself closely pressed 
on one side of the swamp, attempted to escape from the oppo- 
site, and came out where Caleb Cook, of Plymouth colony, and 
a Jaconet Indian, named Alderman, were posted. Cook in- 
stantly levelled his gun, but it missed fire. Alderman, whose 
gun was loaded with two balls, fired, and Philip, bounding from 
the ground, fell flat upon his face in the mud and water, with 
his gun under him, one of the balls having passed through his 
heart, and the other into his lungs. * 

The barbarous usage of beheading and quartering traitors, 
was now executed upon the body of the unfortunate Philip. His 
head was brought to Plymouth on thanksgiving day rn great 
triumph, where it was exposed to public view for more than 
twenty years, and one of his hands was preserved in rum by 
Alderman, who afterwards exhibited it through, the country. 

* Thus fell Metacomet,' says Mr. Baylies, 'some times called 

* There is in the Historical Society's Collection, vol iv. second 
series, an anecdote respecting the lock of the gun with which King 
Philip was killed, as follows : 

The late Isaac Lothrop, of Plymouth, obtained the lock of Sylva- 
iius Cook, late of Kingston. Sylvanus was great grandson of Caleb 
Cook, and Caleb was the soldier placed with an Indian by Colonel 
Church to watch, and, if possible, kill King Philip. Cook, as the 
historian relates, snapped his gun, but it missed fire. He then bade 
the Indian fire, and he instantly shot him through the heart. The 
tradition is, that Cook, having a strong desire to possess the gun 
with which Philip was killed, prevailed on the Indian to exchanore 
guns with him ; and the fortunate gun has been preserved in the 
family of the Cooks to the present time. When the great grandson 
consented that Mr. Lothrop should take the lock, he retained the 
other parts as memorials of the interesting event. The gun lock 
was, by Dr. Nathaniel Lothrop, late of this town, presented to Rev^ 
John Lothrop, of Boston, and by him to the Historical Society. 
33* 



390 INDIAN HISTORY. 

Pumatarkeam, the Sachem of Mount Hope, or Pokanoket, bet- 
er known by his English name Philip^ the most illustrious 
savage of North America, the most powerful enemy that wa& 
ever encountered by the English settlers, and who came near 
exterminating the whole English race in New England.' Philip 
was unquestionably a man of superior talents, a great warrior, 
and a mighty chief, in whom rested the confidence and hope of 
the confederated tribes. On close examination of his character, 
it will appear that he possessed some virtues which ought to 
have inspired his enemies with respect, some traits of a benev- 
olent heart which should be remembered with gratitude. But 
unfortunately for his memory, his character could be written 
only by his enemies, who in noticing his victories were obliged 
to record their own defeats, and whose prejudice naturally led 
to a false coloring of motives and actions. In Philip*s charac- 
ter were combined the attributes of the patriot and hero, and it 
is unjust that his stern courage, and unconquerable spirit, should 
be regarded as mere savage ferocity. This celebrated chief 
was led by his sagacious mind to anticipate the impending fate 
of his race. The English were constantly increasing in num- 
bers and strength, they were in possession of a considerable 
portion of the Indian territories, and the expulsion of the ab- 
origines from the land of their fathers must inevitably be the 
consequence. Base indeed would have been his conduct had 
not Philip made every possible effort in favor of the preserva- 
tion of his people. No chief of a numerous and powerful nation 
would tamely submit to annihilation without a struggle. His 
patriotic spirit was excited into action, and the noble deeds 
which he performed in 1676, in defence of his unfortunate peo- 
ple, would not suffer in comparison with those of the renowned 
heroes in our own cause in 1776, to whom has justly been award- 
ed a large share of honor and fame. Had Philip been the con- 
queror instead of the vanquished, the whole race in this coun- 
try would have celebrated his name with enthusiasm, and en- 
twined round his brow laurels like those which have adorned 
the names of some of the most renowned heroes of antiquity. 
Who shall discern the difference between the noble heroism, 
and the loftiness of spirit, which is laudably displayed by the 
patriot in civilized life, and the same active virtues when glow- 
ing in the breast of the ignorant, untutored son of the forest.'' 
From the death of Philip may be dated the extinction of his 
tribe, and eventually the aboriginal race in New England. 
The termination of the sanguinary Indian war was an event 
of the utmost importance to the colonies, as during its con- 
tinuance of about two years, they suffered a loss of thirteen 



INDIAN HISTORY. 391 

towns in all the colonies, six hundred dwelling houses 
burnt, and six hundred men slain in the flower of their strength; 
so that almost every family in New England was called to mourn 
the loss of a relation or friend. 

The mode of warfare practised by Philip and his followers, 
by burning the habitations, and their murderous assaults upon 
the inhabitants, could not fail of spreading through the land in- 
expressible terror and dismay. 

It can therefore be no matter of surprise that a vindictive 
and bitter spirit was excited among the English colonists against 
their enemies, but we have to lament the want of charity and 
candor in that eminent divine, Dr. Increase Mather. In speak- 
ing of the efficacy of prayer for the destruction of the Indians, 
he says, ' Nor could they cease crying to the Lord against 
Philip until they had prayed the bullet into his heart.' Speak- 
ing of the slaughter of Philip's people at Narraganset, he says, 
* We have heard of two and twenty Indian captains, slain, all 
of them brought down to hell in one day.' Again referring to 
a chief who had sneered at the christian religion, and who had 
^ withal, added a most hideous blasphemy, immediately upon 
which a bullet struck him in the head and dashed out his brains, 
sending his cursed soul in a moment amongst the devils, and 
blasphemers in hell forever.* 

When true religion warms the heart into philanthropy, there 
will be no rejoicing at the sacrifice of the lives of human beings, 
nor complacency in sanguinary revenge. The enormities of 
the Indians cannot justify enormities among christians, who be- 
ing blessed with high intellect, should set before them examples 
of mildness and humanity. It is true that Philip, following the 
injunction and example of his father, was strongly opposed to 
the christian religion. Their own forms of religious worship 
were probably no less precious to th6m than the christian reli- 
gion was to their opposers. When Rev. Mr. Eliot urged upon 
Philip the great importance of the gospel, he, taking hold of a 
button on his coat replied, that he cared no more for the gos- 
pel than he did for that button. Dr. Mather, in the year 1700, 
says, ' it was not long, before the hand which now writes, upon 
a certain occasion took off the jaw from the exposed skull of 
that blasphemous leviathan; and the renowned Samuel Lee hath 
since been a pastor to an English congregation, sounding and 
showing the praises of heaven, upon that very spot of ground, 
where Philip and his Indians were lately worshipping of the 
devil.' From the above data it appears that Philip's skull re- 
mained exposed 24 years or more. 

The rage for war manifested by the natives, was by Dr 



392 tNDIAK HISTORY. 

Math6f and others ascribed to the influence of a diabolical 
spirit, and the Rev. Divine speaks of them in the phraseology 
of the times as if they were unworthy of christian sympathy. 
In a review of the treatment of the Indian prisoners by th^ 
colonists, the inquiry naturally arises to what extent the inflic- 
tion of capital punishment could be considered as justifiable and 
proper. The position is allowed to be correct that a conquered 
foe should be rendered incapable of committing further enormi- 
ties; retaliation nevertheless should be tempered with clemen- 
cy, and human lives should be sacrificed no further than the 
public safety demands. The major part of the Indian prison- 
ers, both old and young, of both sexes, were condemned to a 
punishment little less cruel than death, that of being sold into 
perpetual slavery; some were transported to Europe and to 
Bermudas, and others were domesticated among the English 
families. The principles of humanity as understood in more 
modern times would raise the public voice against such pro- 
ceedings, unless the real safety of the conquerors rendered it 
indispensable. The punishment of death was inflicted on a 
number of the most notorious murderers of defenceless families 
and individuals. Eleven savages of this description were cap- 
tured in July, 1676, four of whom were executed at Plymouth, 
and others at Boston. The base miscreants who assaulted the 
house of Mr. Clark at Plymouth and massacred the inhabitants, 
were justly excepted from mercy or quarter. 

After the death of Philip, the government appointed a day of 
thanksgiving, and they awarded to Captain Church the miser- 
able pittance of 30s. for each Indian captured and killed, for 
his invaluable services and imminent perils to which he had ex- 
posed himself for the benefit of the public. The remains of 
Philip's forces were now commanded by Annawan, long noted 
for his savage ferocity and numerous murders. He was one of 
Philip's great captains, and he narrowly escaped with 50 or 60 
men from the swamp when Philip was killed. Wolf-like, he 
was prowling in the wilderness and rushing from his secret 
haunts to devour and destroy. The brave Captain Church was 
now desired to raise a small party of volunteers to hunt for 
this savage in the forests and swamps. His former worthy 
lieutenant, Jabez Howland, and a few of his old soldiers as- 
sured him that they would hunt with hira as long as there was 
an Indian left in the woods. A few prisoners were soon taken, 
who informed that Annawan was ranging from swamp to swamp, 
never lodging * twice in a place.' Church, calling his few men 
together, inquired, whether they would willingly go with him 
and give Annawan a visit.* ' All answered in the affirmative, 



INDIAN HISTORY. 393 

but reminded him that they knew this Captain Annawan was a 
great soldier, that he had been a valiant Captain under Philip's 
father; and that he had been Philip's chieftain all this war.' 
And further, that he was a very subtle man, of great resolution, 
and had often said, that he would never be taken alive by the 
English. They moreover reminded Captain Church that the 
soldiers who were with Annawan were resolute fellows, some of 
Philip's chief soldiers, and they very much feared that to make 
the attempt with such a small number, would be hazardous in 
the extreme. Mr. Cook, belonging to Plymouth, being asked 
by Church what was his opinion of the undertaking, replied, — 
' I am never afraid of going any where when you are with me.' 
Captain Church, with unshaken resolution remarked to them, 
^That he had a long time sought for Annawan but in vain,' and 
doubted not in the least but Providence would protect them. 

Church, with his small party consisting of six Indians, and 
Cook, the only Englishman, proceeded and soon captured one 
of Annawan 's Indians, and a girl, who consented to conduct them 
to the retreat of Annawan, and his company of 50 or 60 men. 
Their den was situated in Rehoboth, about eight miles from 
Taunton green, in an immense swamp of nearly 3,000 acres, ia 
which was a small piece of upland, covered almost entirely by 
an enormous rock, which is still called Jinnau'an''s rock. This 
on one side presents an almost perpendicular precipice of 25 or 
.SO feet in height, on the other side it was less inaccessible and 
Church with two of his Indians ascended to its summit, from 
which he discovered the object of his pursuit, and his whole 
company by the light of their fires. They were divided into 
three parties laying at a short distance from each other; their 
guns leaning against a cross stick and covered from the weather 
by mats. Over their fires their supper was cooking. To any 
other man than Church a descent into this infernal den would 
be deemed an act of unjustifiable rashness. To him indeed the 
attempt was appalling, a forlorn hope, for if in sliding down the 
rock he should be discovered, instant death would be his fate, 
and if he should reach their camp with his six Indians and one 
Englishman, what would prevent the immediate sacrifice of the 
whole party.'' Church, however, being a man of religious zeal 
and full in the faith of the protection of Divine Providence, re- 
solved on the perilous ;experirnent. Hearing the noise of 
pounding corn in a mortar in the Indian camp, he thought it 
might favor his movements. He ordered his Indian prisoner, 
and his daughter, who were well acquainted with the place to 
lead the way, with their baskets at their backs as they had often 
done before, and Church and his men followed close in their 



394 INDIAN HISTORY. 

rear; holding on by the bushes that grew from the fissures of 
the rock, resting when the pounding ceased and advancing 
when that was renewed. Church suddenly leaped from the 
rock into the midst of his enemies, unharmed, with his tomahawk 
in his hand; instantly the old captain Annnwan started up cry- 
ing out ' HjwoIij I am taken.' Church and his men immediate- 
ly secured their arms, and then calling on all the Indians to 
submit, who in their panic, supposed the English far more nu- 
merous than they were, yielded themselves as prisoners, and to 
prevent their making resistance they were told that Captain 
Church had encompassed them with his army, and that resist- 
ance would be in vain, but if they submitted peaceably they 
should receive good treatment. To this they readily consented, 
and surrendered up their guns and hatchets. Having thus far 
settled this great affair. Church asked Annawan, what he had 
for supper, saying, ' I am come to sup with you.' Annawan 
replied, ' Sanbut,' and ordered his women to provide supper for 
Captain Church and his company, inquiring whether he would 
eat cow beef or horse beef; he replied cow beef Church and 
his little party remained in the Indian camp during the night, in 
the midst of his prisoners, being in number ten to one of his 
own men, but without sleep although he had not slept for 
the last 36 hours. His men were soon asleep, but Annawan 
was awake. Finding that Annawan could converse in the Eng- 
lish language, they held much conversation together for more 
than an hour, when the chief retired, and being absent some 
time, Church became very anxious, suspecting some ill design. 
But he returned and falling on his knees before him, he thus 
addressed Church in English, "Great Captain, you have kill- 
ed Philip, and conquered his country, for I believe that I and 
my company are the last that war against the English; so sup- 
pose the war is ended by your means; and therefore these 
things belong to you." He then presented him with what he 
said was Philip's royalties, with which he was wont to adorn 
himself when he sat in state, and he thought himself happy in 
having an opportunity to present them to him. The first was a 
beautifully wrought belt nine inches in breadth, and of such 
length, that when put about the shoulders of Captain Church 
it reached to his ancles. This was considered at that time of 
great value, being embroidered all over with wampum of vari- 
ous colors, curiously wrought into figures of birds, beasts and 
flowers. The second belt was also of exquisite workmanship, 
with which Philip used to ornament his head, and from which 
flowed two flags which decorated his back. A third belt was a 
smaller one, with a star upon the end of it, which he wore upon 



INDIAN HISTORY. 395 

his breast. All these were edged with red hair, which Anna- 
wan said was got in the country of the Mohawks.* To these 
splendid regalia were added two horns of glazed power and a red 
cloth blanket. The next morning, Church marched with his 
prisoners for Taunton; on their way they met with Lieutenant 
Howland, according to appointment, who was not a little sur- 
prised at this great exploit, having despaired of ever seeing him 
again alive. Church kept Annawan under his protection and 
conducted him to Plymouth as a prisoner of no small importance. 
*Thus,' says Baylies, ' was this most daring enterprise success- 
fully achieved by the prowess of one man. The capture of 
Annawan terminated the war, for all the subsequent expeditions 
were in pursuit»of flying and skulking enemies. The English 
race in New England was saved from destruction, and placed 
in safety; for this great service Church received the thanks of 
the General Court of Plymouth, and nothing else! And he 
had also the mortification to find all his entreaties and prayers 
for the life of Annawan utterly disregarded, and this unfortu- 
nate chief, the last of the New England Indians, was beheaded 
at Plymouth — a dastardly act which disgraced the Government.' 
After this service. Captain Church induced Tispequin, another 
distinguished chief, to surrender himself as a prisoner. Tispe- 
quin was a noted Pawaw, and had impressed his simple people 
with the notion that his person was invulnerable to bullets ! 
When he surrendered. Church, thinking he might be useful to 
him, invited him to join his service, and encouraged him that 
his life would be spared, and that he would make a captain of 
him. ' He came in,' says Mr. Hubbard, ' upon hopes of being 
made a captain under Church, but upon trial (which was the 
condition on which his being promised a captain's place did de-^ 

* Mr. Josselyn in his account of two voyages to New England^ 
saysof the Indians, 'Their beads are their money ; of these, there 
are two sorts, blue beads and white beads ; the first is their gold, the 
last is their silver. These they work out of certain shell?, so cun- 
ningly that neither Jetv nor Devil can counterfeit. They drill them 
and string them, and make curious works with them, to adorn the 
persons of their Sagamores and principal men, and young women, 
as belts, girdles, tablets, borders for their women's i)air. bracelets, 
necklaces, and links to hang in their ears. Prince Philip, a little 
before I came away for Eni» land, (1671,) coming to Boston, had a coat 
on and buskins set thick with these beads, in pleasant wild works, and 
a broad belt of the same ; his accoutrements were valued at £20.' 

'The English merchant giveth them 10s. a fathom for their white, 
and as much more, or near upon for their blue beads.' See descrip- 
tion of Wampum in first part of this vol. 



396 INDIAN HISTORY. 

pend) he was found penetrable by the English guns, for he fell 
down upon the first shot, and thereby received the just reward 
of his former wickedness.' Respecting this extraordinary 
transaction, so irreconcilable with the laws of honor and pro- 
bity, Judge Davis makes the following just remarks: — 'This 
pitiful evasion, it may be hoped, belongs v/holly to the histori- 
an; we are unwilling to believe that the authorities of the coun- 
try would have resorted to such unworthy equivocation.' But 
an interesting inquiry is, what was the destined fate of King 
Philip's son? It appears that government were not prepared to 
dispose of this innocent youth, without the opinion and advice 
of learned Divines. The Rev, Mr. Cotton, of Plymouth, and 
the Rev. Mr. Arnold, of Marshfield, rendered their united opin- 
ion to the following purport: — -' They humbly conceive, on se- 
rious consideration, that children of notorious traitors, rebels, 
and murderers, especially of such as have been principal lead- 
ers, and actors in such horrid villainies, and that against a whole 
nation, yea, the whole Israel of God, may be involved in the 
guilt of their parents, and may, Salva republica, be adjudged to 
death, as to us seems evident by the scripture instances of Said, 
Acfian, Hainan, the children of whom were cut off by the sword 
of justice for the transgressions of their parents, although, con- 
cerning some of those children, it be manifest that they were 
not capable of being co-actors therein.' 

The opinion of the Rev. Increase Mather, in a letter to Mr. 
Cotton, October 30th, 1676: ' If it had not been out of my 
mind when I was writing, I should have said something about 
Philip's son. It is necessary that some effectual course should 
be taken about him. He makes me think of Hadad, who was 
but a little child when his father, (the chief Sachem of the 
Edomites) was killed by Joab; and had not others flsd away 
with him, I am apt to think that David would have taken a 
course, that Hadad should never have proved a scourge to the 
next generation.' But the Rev. James Keith, of Bridgewater, 
interposed as a more auspicious pleader in the cause of" human- 
ity. In a letter to Mr. Cotton, he says, * I long to hear what 
became of Philip's wife and son. I know there is some diffi- 
culty in that Psalm, 137, 8, 9, though I think it may be consid- 
ered whether there be not specialities, and somewhat extraordi- 
nary in it. That law, Deut. 24. 16, compared with the com- 
mended example of Amaziah, 2d Cron. 24. 4, doth sway much 
with me, in the case under consideration. I hope God will di- 
rect those whom it doth concern to a good issue. Let us join 
our prayers at the throne of grace with all our might, that the 
Lord W04ild so dispose of all public motions and affairs, thai his 



INDIAN HISTORY. 397 

Jerusalem, in this wilderness, may be the habitation of justice, 
and the mountain of holiness, that so it may be, also, a quiet 
habitation, a tabernacle that shall not be taken down.' Mr. 
Keith was happy in his reference to 2d Ghron.: ' But he slew 
not their children, but did as it is written in the law in the book 
of Moses,' &c. 

It is consoHng to our feelings to know that in the issue of 
this singular discussion, the life of the innocent boy was spared, 
although that life was fur a price doomed to slavery. We 
readily coincide with Hon. Judge Davis in the following senti- 
ment. ^ The question, thus seriously agitated, would not, in 
modern times, occur in any nation in Christendom. Principles 
of public law, sentiments of humanity, the mild influence of 
.the gospel, in preference to a recurrence to the Jewish dispen- 
sation, so much regarded by our ancestors in their delibera- 
tions and decisions, would forbid the thought of inflicting pun- 
ishment on children for the offences of a parent,' — Memorial, 
Jlp. p. 455. Perhaps one exception may be admitted in the 
above remark, that of the unfortunate French Dauphin, in 1793. 

Sam Barrow was a famous warrior in Philip's war, and for a 
long time dreaded as a ferocious enemy by the inhabitants. 
He was at length captured by Captain Church at Cape Cod. 
Church, in his history, says, that ' he was as noted a rogue as 
any among the enemy.' Church told him that the government 
would not permit him to grant him quarter, because of his in- 
human murders and barbarities, and therefore ordered him to 
prepare for execution. Barrow replied, that the sentence of 
death against him was just, and that indeed he was ashamed to 
live any longer, and desired no more favor than to smoke a 
whifF of tobacco before his execution. When he had taken a 
few whifl^s, he said, ' I am ready,' when one of Church's In- 
dians, being prepared, sunk his hatchet into his brains. 

The Rev. Roger Williams was a staunch friend to the natives, 
and was a great favorite among them. In Drake's Indian Biog- 
raphy is published a manuscript letter from this gentleman to 
the Governor of Massachusetts, dated Providence, 5. 8. 1654 
which is as follows: 

* At my last departure for England, I was importuned by ye 
Narraganset Sachems, and especially by JS'enecmmnt , to present 
their petition to the high Sachem of England, that they might 
not be forced from their religion; and for not changing their re- 
ligion, be invaded by war. For they said they were daily vis- 
ited with threatenings by Indians, that came t>om about Mas- 
sachusetts; that if they would not pray, they should be destroy- 
ed by war.' ' Ai'e not all the English Qi|||)Ag land, (generally) 



34 



398 INDIAN HISTORY. 

a persecuted people from their native soil? and hath not the 
God of peace and the father of mercies made the natives more 
friendly in this than in our native countrymen in our own land I 
to us? have they not entered leagues of love, and lo this day- 
continued peaceable commerce with us? are not our families 
grown up in peace amongst them? upon which I humbly ask, 
how it can suit with christian ingenuity, to take hold of some 
seeming occasions for their destruction?' 

These primitive sons of the forest were the first possessors 
and masters of the country, and were not unworthy of christian 
sympathy as a vanquished people, who were not altogether des- 
titute of commendable qualities. They were impressed with 
the belief that they were placed on these lands by the Great 
Spirit, and that they were given them for their sole benefit, and« 
that no persons can, consequently, have a right to dispossess 
them of their native patrimony, their rightful hunting ground, 
and containing the sepulchres of their fathers. They were in- 
dependent nations, and attached to their rights and liberties, 
which, with their lives, they valiantly defended. But they were 
conquered, and their posterity have been compelled to recede 
rapidly before a civilized people, relinquishing every prospect, 
every object that could be dear to their hearts. The small re- 
mains of the aborigines seem to be doomed to banishment, and 
to perish by lingering desolation in the unexplored wilderness, 
until the race shall be extinct! This subject will now be closed 
by the following anecdote, which shows that the present gener- 
ation know how to appreciate the welfare enjoyed by their an- 
cestors, and how to deplore the hard fate to which their descend- 
ants are destined. In the year 1789, a number of Indian Sa- 
chems assembled at New York, on a mission to President Wash- 
ington. General Knox, as secretary at war, invited them to a 
dinner at his table. A little before dinner, two or three of the 
Sachems, with their chief or principal man, went into the bal- 
cony, at the front of the house, from which they had a view of 
the city, the harbor. Long Island, and the adjacent country. On 
returning into the room they appeared dejected. General Knox, 
noticing this, said to the chief, ^ Brother, what has happened 
to you.^ You look sorry! Is there any thing here to make 
you unhappy?' He answered, ' I will tell you, brother. I have 
been looking at your beautiful city, the great water, and rivers, 
your mighty fine country, producing enough for all your wants; 
see how happy you all are. But then I could not help thinking 
that this fine country, and this great water was once ours. Our 
ancestors once lived here, they enjoyed it as their own posses- 
sions in peace; it was the gift of the Great Spirit to them and 



INDIAN HISTORY. 399 

their children. At length the white people came here in a great 
canoe. They asked only to let them tie it to a tree, lest the 
waters should carry it away; we consented. They then said 
some of their people were sick, and they asked permission to 
land them, and put them under the shade of the trees. The 
ice then came, and they could not get away. They then begged 
a piece of land to build wigwams for the winter; we granted it 
to them. They then asked for some corn to keep them from 
starving; we kindly furnished it to them, they promising to go 
away when the ice was gone. When this happened, and the 
great water was clear, we told them they must now go away 
with their big canoe; but they pointed to their big guns round 
their wigwams, and said they would stay there, and we could 
not make them go away. Afterwards more white people came. 
They brought spirituous and intoxicating liquors with them, of 
which the Indians became very fond. They persuaded us to 
sell them some land. Finally, they drove us back from time to 
time, into the wilderness, far from the water, and the fish and 
the oysters; they destroyed the game, our people have wasted 
away, and now we live miserable and wretched, while you are 
enjoying our fine and beautiful country. This it is that makes 
me sorry, brother! and I cannot help it.* 

The following is copied from the American Remembrancer, 
being an impartial collection of facts published in London dur- 
ing the Revolutionary war, for the year 1782, vol, xiv. p. 185. 

Boston, March 12. 

Extract of a letter from Captain Gerrish, of the New Eng- 
land militia, dated Albany, March 7. 

"The peltry taken in the expedition, will, you see, amount 
to a good deal of money. The possession of this booty at first 
gave us pleasure; but we were struck with horror to find among 
the packages, eight large ones containing scalps of our unfortu- 
nate country folks, taken in the three last years by the Seneca 
Indians, from the inhabitants of the frontiers of New York, 
New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Virginia, and sent by them as 
a present to Colonel Haldimand, Governor of Canada, in order 
to be by him transmitted to England. They were accompanied 
by the following curious letter to that gentleman: 

^ Tioga, January 3d, 1787. 
' May it please your Excellency, — 

' At the request of the Seneca chief, I herewith send to your 
Excellency, under the care of James Hoyd, eight packages of 
scalps, cured, dried, hooped and painted, with all the triumphal 
marks, of which the following is the i^^ice and explanation: 



400 INDIAN HISTORY. 

'No. 1. Containing forty-three scalps of Congress soldiers, 
killed in different skirmishes. These are stretched on black 
hoops, four inches in diameter, the inside of the skin painted red, 
with a small black spot, to note their being killed with bullets. 
Also, sixty-two of farmers, killed in their Houses; the hoops 
painted red, the skin painted brown and marked with a hoe, a 
black circle all round, to denote their being surprised in the 
night, and a black hatchet in the middle, signifying their being 
killed with that weapon. 

*No. 2. Containing ninety-eight of farmers, killed in their 
houses; hoops red, figure of a hoe to mark their profession, 
great white circle and sun, to show they were surprised in the 
day time, a little red foot, to show they stood upon their de- 
fence, and died fighting for their lives and families. 

• No. 3. Containing ninety-seven of farmers; hoops green, to 
show they were killed in the fields, a large white circle with a 
little round mark on it for the sun, to show it was in the day 
time; black bullet mark on some, a hatchet on others. 

' No. 4. Containing one hundred and two of farmers; mix- 
ture of several of the marks above, only eighteen marked with 
a little yellow flame, to denote their being of prisoners burnt 
alive, after being scalped, their nails pulled out by the roots, 
and other torments. One of these latter supposed to be of an 
American clergyman, his band being fixed to the hoop of his 
scalp. Most of the farmers appear, by the hair, to have been 
young or middle-aged men, there being but sixty -seven very 
grey heads among them all, which makes the service more es- 
sential. 

' No. 5. Containing eighty-eight scalps of women, hair long, 
braided in the Indian fashion, to show they were mothers; hoops 
blue, skin yellow ground, with little red tadpoles, to represent, 
by way of triumph, the tears of grief occasioned to their rela- 
tions; a black scalping knife or hatchet at the bottom, to mark 
their being killed by those instruments. Seventeen others, hair 
very grey; black hoops, plain brown color, no marks but the 
short club or casse-tete, to show they were knocked down dead, 
or had their brains beat out. 

' No. 6. Containing one hundred and ninety-three boys' 
scalps, of various ages; small green hoops, whitish ground on 
the skin, with red tears in the middle, and black marks; knife, 
hatchet, or club, as their death happened. 

' No. 7. Containing two hundred and eleven girls' scalps, big 
and little; small yellow hoops, white ground; tears, hatchet, 
club, scalping knife, &c. 



INDIAN HISTORY. 401 

mentioned, to the number of one hundred and twenty-two, with 
a box of birch bark, containing twenty-nine Httle infants' scalps, 
of various sizes; small white hoops, white ground; no tears, 
and only a little black knife in the middle, to show they were 
ripped out of their mothers' bellies. 

' With these packs the chiefs send to your Excellency the 
following speech, delivered by Conicogatchie, in council, in- 
terpreted by the Elder Moore, the trader, and taken down by me 
in writing: 

' Father! — We send you herewith many scalps, that you may 
see we are not idle friends. Jl blue belt. 

' Father! — We wish you to send these scalps over the water 
to the great King, that he may regard them and be refreshed, 
and that he may see our foithfulness in destroying his enemies, 
and be convinced that his presents have not been made to an 
ungrateful people. A blue and white belt, with red tassels. 

''Father! — Attend to what I am now going to say. It is a 
matter of much weight. The great King's enemies are many, 
and they grow fast in number. They were formerly like young 
panthers. They could neither bite nor scratch. We could 
play with them safely. We feared nothing they could do to us. 
But now their bodies have become as big as the elk, and strong 
as the buffalo. They have also great and sharp claws. They 
have driven us out of our country for taking part in your quar- 
rel. We expect the great King will give us another country, 
that our children may live after us, and be his friends and child- 
ren as we are. Say this for us to our great King. To entbrce 
it, give this belt. J2 great white belt, with blue tassels. 

' Father! — We have only to say further, that your traders ex- 
act more than ever for their goods; and our hunting is lessened 
by the war, so that we have fewer skins to give for them. This 
ruins us. Think of some remedy. We are poor, and you 
have plenty of every thing. We know you will send us powder 
and guns, and knives and hatchets. But we also want shirts 
and blankets.' A little white belt. 

' I do not doubt but that your Excellency will think it proper 
to give some further encouragement to these honest people. 
The high prices they complain of, are the necessary effect of 
the war. Whatever presents may be sent for them through my 
hands, shall be distributed with prudence and fidelity. 

' I have the honor of being your Excellency's most obedient 
and most humble servant, JAMES CRAWFORD.' 



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